Former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has opened up on the factors behind his loss to Nassourdine Imavov, admitting that a moment during the fight affected his performance.
In February 2025, in a headlining bout in Saudi Arabia, Adesanya confronted Imavov; the battle was closely matched before ending abruptly in the second round.
The Nigerian-born fighter admitted that an eye poke just before the final attack broke his concentration, therefore affecting his response in the final minutes.
After the incident, Adesanya opted to keep going right away rather than stop to recuperate, a decision he now admits may have cost him.
Thinking back on the battle, he agreed that, regardless of experience, keeping composure in such events is very important.
The News Chronicle reported that Adesanya’s career went through a trying period following the loss, extending his losing streak and prompting doubts about his upcoming moves in the division. Still, as he gets ready for his next bout, the warrior appears fixated on a comeback.
Adesanya is scheduled to return to the octagon against Joe Pyfer in Seattle, a bout seen as a critical test for both fighters.
While Pyfer enters the contest in strong form, Adesanya will aim to reset and reassert himself at the top level of the sport.
