How Israel Adesanya’s Career Derailed After Losing to Alex Pereira 

Israel Adesanya was a dominant force in the UFC middleweight division. However, his defeat against Alex Pereira in 2022 changed the course of his career. Let’s explore how. 

On November 12, 2022, Adesanya lost his title to Pereira via a knockout. This was his third loss to Pereira (including kickboxing). The defeat raised doubts about his reign. 

The loss was more than just physical; it shook Adesanya mentally. Losing three times to the same opponent took a toll on his confidence and fighting strategy. 

Adesanya bounced back by knocking out Pereira in their rematch at UFC 287 on April 8, 2023. He regained his title, but questions about consistency remained. 

On September 16, 2023, Adesanya lost to Sean Strickland via unanimous decision. His lack of aggression and effectiveness in striking worried fans and critics alike. 

Fans began to question if Adesanya was still the same dominant fighter. Social media was filled with debates about his decline in performance. 

Losing multiple times in a short span can impact an athlete’s mindset. Can Adesanya regain his elite mentality and prove doubters wrong? 

With the middleweight division evolving, Adesanya must adapt. A change in training methods and mindset might be key to his resurgence. 

While his career has hit turbulence, Adesanya’s story isn’t over. Will he make a comeback, or has his peak passed? Only time will tell.