Israel Adesanya: Career Update, Record, and Future

Israel Adesanya’s career has reached a critical juncture after his submission loss to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305. The questions have shifted from his next highlight-reel knockout to whether the former champion has a future in the sport. This article looks at his career record, the details of his latest defeat, and what might come next for “The Last Stylebender.”

Record: 24-6-0 ·
Height: 6’4″ (193 cm) ·
Weight: 185 lbs (84 kg) ·
Reach: 80″ (203 cm) ·
Age: 36 (born July 22, 1989) ·
Team: City Kickboxing

Six key stats define Adesanya’s physical profile and career standing, one pattern: his reach advantage and knockout power have carried him through most of his UFC run.

What happened to Israel Adesanya?

What was Adesanya’s last fight?

• Adesanya lost to Dricus du Plessis at UFC 305 on August 17, 2024, in Perth, Australia (UFC Stats).
• The fight was his return after an 11-month layoff (ESPN).

How did Adesanya lose his last fight?

• Du Plessis submitted Adesanya via rear-naked choke (face crank) at 4:38 of Round 4 (UFC Stats).
• It was Adesanya’s first career submission loss and brought his record to 24-6-0.

This loss marks the latest chapter in a career defined by highs and lows.

Will Adesanya ever fight again?

Has Adesanya announced retirement?

• Adesanya has not officially retired (DAZN).
• He told reporters after UFC 305 he was not leaving the sport (DAZN).

What are the chances of a comeback?

• Adesanya has hinted at taking a break but joked it would not last until 2027 (ESPN).
• No official fight is booked, but speculation points to a potential return in late 2025.

The implication: the fighter who once dominated is now in a waiting pattern.

How many fights has Adesanya lost?

What is Adesanya’s overall record?

• Adesanya’s professional MMA record stands at 24 wins and 6 losses (UFC Stats).
• He has 24 wins, including 16 knockouts and 8 decisions (UFC – official promotion).

How many of his losses are by knockout?

• Adesanya has 6 losses in total — 1 knockout (to Alex Pereira), 1 submission (to du Plessis), and 4 decisions.
• The KO loss came at UFC 281 in November 2022 (UFC).

The pattern: his margin for error is shrinking.

Who knocked Adesanya out?

Which fighter knocked out Adesanya?

• Alex Pereira knocked out Adesanya at UFC 281 on November 12, 2022 (UFC).
• The stoppage came in the fifth round via TKO.

When did the knockout happen?

• UFC 281 took place at Madison Square Garden in New York City.
• It was Adesanya’s first loss in the UFC after eight consecutive wins.

Does Israel Adesanya have kids?

Does Adesanya have children?

• Adesanya has a daughter (UFC).
• He has not publicly named the mother of his child.

How many children does he have?

• As of February 2025, Adesanya has one daughter. No other children have been confirmed.

Specifications

Adesanya’s physical dimensions and fight stats create a clear profile: a tall, long-reach striker who relies on range and counters.

Timeline

Adesanya’s career timeline highlights his rapid rise and recent challenges.

Quotes

“I’m not leaving the sport. I’m just disappointed in myself, but I’m proud of my performance.”

— Israel Adesanya, after UFC 305 (DAZN)

Adesanya said before UFC 305 that he did not expect to be fighting again for a long time after his previous loss (ESPN).

For Adesanya, the choice is clear: redefine his legacy with a methodical comeback, or watch the division move past him. The middleweight throne is occupied, and the door is narrowing.

For a detailed breakdown of his recent performances and what lies ahead, see Israel Adesanyas career update.

Frequently asked questions