Adesanya Reflects on UFC 293 Loss, Future Plans

Israel Adesanya revealed that he went against the advice of UFC CEO Dana White, who urged him not to fight Sean Strickland at UFC 293 due to injuries and his established financial security. Adesanya, emotionally motivated to compete in Sydney, suffered a major upset and began a three-fight losing streak, which he now regards as a hard lesson in adversity. The decision has drawn mixed reactions from fans and MMA commentators, with some criticizing Adesanya's stubbornness and others, including fighter Michael Chandler, defending White's supportive role. Adesanya has since lost to Dricus du Plessis and Nassourdine Imavov and is considering training with Jon Jones to improve his performance. He remains interested in a rematch with Strickland but has no immediate plans for a return. The situation has sparked broader debate about fighter management, career longevity, and the pressure to remain active at the elite level.