Sun Feb 09 06:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Adesanya Remains Positive Despite Knockout Loss in Saudi Arabia
**RIYADH, Saudi Arabia** – Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya suffered his third consecutive defeat Saturday night at UFC Saudi Arabia, losing via second-round knockout to Nassourdine Imavov. Despite the setback, which drops Adesanya to 1-4 in his last five fights, the fighter remains upbeat about his performance and future prospects.
Adesanya, known as “The Last Stylebender,” attributed the loss to a crucial mistake made after an accidental eye poke. He rushed back into action without resetting his distance, leaving himself vulnerable to Imavov’s decisive right hand and subsequent flurry of punches. Referee Marc Goddard subsequently stopped the fight.
“I should have reset,” Adesanya admitted on his YouTube channel. “He got me because I didn’t.” However, he expressed satisfaction with his training camp and overall preparation, stating he wouldn’t change a thing. He plans to continue his rigorous training regime for his next fight, aiming to reclaim his championship belt.
While Adesanya’s initial strategy involved a measured approach, gradually increasing his offensive pressure, Imavov’s resilience proved a decisive factor. Adesanya acknowledged Imavov’s effectiveness, giving credit to his opponent’s performance without making excuses for his own defeat. The fighter’s future plans remain unclear, but he remains determined and confident in his ability to return to championship form.
First Piper 