Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC
Israel Adesanya’s evening came to a quick end on Saturday in Saudi Arabia.
The former UFC middleweight champion fell via knockout in the second round to Nassourdine Imavov, dropping his overall record to 24-5.
The defeat represents the third straight for Adesanya, and fans promptly took to social media to question the 35-year-old’s future in the sport.
Orevaoghene @RevKoka
Adesanya is just a step behind where he used to be. That slight step is making all the difference though. Might be time to retire #UFCSaudiArabia
MMA History Today @MMAHistoryToday
No matter what Israel Adesanya decides to do next, it doesn’t matter.
His legacy is secured. All time great. All time legend.
One of the greatest Champions in UFC history. pic.twitter.com/hmeT3VOiy2
8 ¢ 2x MVP @RunLamarRun
Israel Adesanya is officially WASHED. 👎🏽 It was a great run he had but it’s almost time to hang the gloves up. I’ll never forget what you did and the entertainment you brought to all the fans IZZY. Thank you. #UFCSaudiArabia pic.twitter.com/maR6ppMRLT
Adesanya began his career 20-0 before taking his first career loss in 2021. Since that loss, he has gone 4-5 and lost the UFC Middleweight Championship. The fight against Imanov was Adesanya’s first non-title fight since 2019 and it will take a significant reversal in fortune for him to re-obtain his former glory.
This was the second time Adesanya lost due to a knockout and it was the shortest lost fight he has had in his career.
He does not currently have his next fight scheduled.
