Prior to UFC Saudi Arabia, Israel Adesanya Remains Wielding Unfulfilled Ambitions
If Israel Adesanya hung up his gloves right now, he'd undoubtedly be recognized as one of the top-tier fighters to ever compete in the UFC's middleweight division. However, it seems quite unlikely that the former dual UFC middleweight champion is ready to call it quits on his MMA journey. He's scheduled to headline the UFC Saudi Arabia event, a show that could potentially help the 35-year-old realize at least one of his unfulfilled goals.
The UFC Saudi Arabia event will take place on February 1, 20XX at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The prelims will kick off at 9 a.m. ET, with the main card starting at 12 noon ET. The event will be streamed on ESPN+.
UFC Saudi Arabia: Israel Adesanya
Adesanya reflected on his past triumphs within the UFC Octagon while keeping an eye on his future ambitions.
"I nearly forgot how amazing I was, but then, just recently, I merely remembered, '(expletive), I'm pretty good at this (expletive).' I forget about it due to—reasons, but yeah, it's good to be reminded. I continue to profess, 'Y'all must have forgot.' (expletive), I nearly forgot," Adesanya shared on YouTube.
"I've accomplished my dreams in this game," Adesanya added. "I still have some dreams left to achieve, but the main ones I've (already) accomplished. I just want to enjoy this shit. I'm definitely going to get a submission (before I retire). That's most certainly a major objective. I don't even care about the belt. I want to get someone's (expletive) ankle or neck."
Israel Adesanya on UFC Saudi Arabia Fight Night: ‘I Still Get Paid’
UFC Saudi Arabia Fight Night Main Event: Adesanya vs. Imavov
Adesanya will square off against Nassourdine Imavov in the first event outside of the U.S. on the 2025 UFC calendar.
Adesanya (24-4), who ranks second in the UFC's 185-pound division, has experienced the first two-fight losing streak of his MMA career. The 35-year-old lost the second run of his UFC middleweight title in September 2023, when he lost a decisive decision to Sean Strickland in a fight where he was heavily favored to win.
Adesanya had an opportunity to become a three-time UFC titleholder in August 2024, but fell short, losing to Du Plessis by rear-naked choke in the fourth round of their UFC 305 bout. The loss marked the first submission defeat of Adesanya's career.
"No, not at all," said Adesanya about the Du Plessis loss. "I did my best, and I was in excellent shape. ... The Dricus fight, I felt strong, but yeah, there's always room for improvement, and we've made those improvements."
Imavov (15-4-0-1) ranks fifth in the UFC middleweight division ahead of his UFC Saudi Arabia main event showdown against Adesanya. Imavov has gone undefeated in his last four fights, with his most recent victory coming in the form of a unanimous decision win over Brendan Allen in September.
Imavov's most recent loss came in January 2023 when Sean Strickland handed him a unanimous decision loss.
UFC Saudi Arabia Opening Odds: Adesanya Vs. Imavov Full Fight Card
UFC Saudi Arabia Main Event: Adesanya on Imavov
"I know he's dangerous. I know he's slick. I appreciate his style," Adesanya said about his upcoming opponent. "Not bad footwork. He's dangerous – very well-rounded. It's not about him; it's about me. It's about improving and just writing this chapter.
"I love the way things are proceeding. It's about me and just improving and displaying what I can truly accomplish in the full range of mixed martial arts. You've got a (expletive) swinging at you, trying to rip your head off – you better be awake."
We will have more on Israel Adesanya, Nassourdine Imavov, and the UFC Saudi Arabia Fight Night card as the event approaches.
The business aspect of UFC Saudi Arabia event is expected to generate significant revenue, as sports and money often go hand in hand in the world of mixed martial arts. Israel Adesanya, with his popularity and winning record, is likely to bring in a considerable share of sportsmoney for the event.
After his loss to Du Plessis, Adesanya mentioned improvements being made in his training, indicating his determination to regain his top spot in the UFC middleweight division and achieve more sportsmoney-generating victories.
