Two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has declared that he has unlocked fresh levels of skill and mindset as he prepares for his highly anticipated return against Nassourdine Imavov in February, According to PUNCH Sports Extra.
“There’s always room for growth, and I’ve now tapped into a new dimension,” Adesanya shared on The Ariel Helwani Show.
The Nigerian-born fighter, who relinquished his title to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305 last August, disclosed that he has taken a different approach to his training for this upcoming showdown, which will headline the UFC’s debut event in Saudi Arabia.
“For this camp, I’ve been fully locked in. In my personal life, I’ve distanced myself from environments and individuals that don’t align with my ultimate mission. I’ve made key adjustments to stay on track with what I truly aim to accomplish in this sport,” he stated.
Now 35, Adesanya reflected on the tough lessons he has learned from back-to-back defeats against Du Plessis and Sean Strickland.
“I was confident in those fights, but I’ve realized the importance of not taking everything too personally. My approach in those bouts wasn’t the best, but I have no regrets. I’ve addressed my mistakes, and this time, I know I’ve done things much better,” he admitted.
This fight against Imavov will be Adesanya’s first non-title bout since his 2019 victory over Anderson Silva, as he embarks on the road back to title contention.
‘The Last Stylebender,’ boasting an impressive record of 24 wins with 16 knockouts, recently told MMA Junkie that the middleweight division has lacked excitement in his absence.
“Without me, this division has become dull. It’s time to bring the fire back,” he declared.
A triumph over the fifth-ranked Imavov could propel Adesanya back into the title conversation, potentially earning him a shot at reclaiming his place at the top or securing a high-stakes contender matchup.
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