Don’t follow my footsteps, Israel Adesanya tells aspiring athletes

Offering advice to those looking to follow in his footsteps, Israel Adesanya urged aspiring athletes to forge their own paths.

Nigerian-born UFC star Israel Adesanya has shared the motivations behind his decision to pursue a career in professional fighting, while also offering advice to aspiring athletes to carve out their own unique paths rather than merely following in his footsteps.

During an interaction at a Celestial Church of Christ service in Lagos, Adesanya, known as “The Last Stylebender,” recounted his journey into the world of fighting. The UFC star, who was seen wearing a Celestial garment in a video circulating online, explained that his decision to fight professionally stemmed from a need to stand up for himself. As he honed his skills, he realized he was talented in combat sports and decided to pursue it as a career, a choice that has proven successful.

Adesanya also emphasized the critical role his father played in his journey, noting that his father’s support was instrumental in his decision to become a fighter. Reflecting on his choice of profession, he said, “It’s a long story, but for me, it started with standing up for myself. Learning how to fight was necessary, and eventually, I discovered I was good at it. I turned it into a career, and so far, it has worked out well.”

In addition to discussing his career, Adesanya spoke about the importance of faith in his life and career. He noted that while physical preparation and hard work are essential, faith has been a guiding force for him. “Faith is something you have to have in this life. You can’t walk by sight, you have to walk by faith. Faith has guided me a lot through my life, not just in my career. I trust in myself, believe in a higher power, and stand steadfast in that belief.”

He continued, “I prepare for my fights through intense training and hard work, but sometimes, you don’t know what the outcome will be. That’s when you have to hold onto faith. Faith is something I rely on in all aspects of my life, including my career.”

Offering advice to those looking to follow in his footsteps, Adesanya urged aspiring athletes to forge their own paths. “Don’t try to follow in my footsteps. I’d say, create your path. Draw inspiration from someone like me and what I’ve achieved, but use that inspiration to advance in your own life. Trying to copy what someone else has done might not be worth it. If you’re inspired by what someone has accomplished, take that inspiration and apply it to your life.”

Adesanya, who arrived in Lagos last Wednesday, was warmly welcomed despite his recent loss at UFC 305 to South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis. During his visit, he also traveled to his hometown of Esa-Oke in Osun State and was spotted enjoying Lagos nightlife, including a night out at a popular club on Lagos Island.

Despite his defeat in the UFC 305 main event, Adesanya reportedly earned more than Du Plessis. The historic bout, which was the first UFC title clash between two African fighters, took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia. Du Plessis successfully defended his UFC Middleweight Championship for the first time, forcing Adesanya to tap out in the fourth round. According to reports from The Sportster, Adesanya, a former two-time middleweight champion, was guaranteed $750,000 for the fight, while Du Plessis earned $500,000.