Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has given fans an update on his return to the Octagon, confirming that preparations are underway for his next fight, though he’s no longer focused on his previously rumored opponent.
Adesanya, who has been out of action since losing his title to Sean Strickland in 2023, hinted in a recent interview that talks for his comeback are progressing but that “certain names” are no longer part of his plans.
“I’m not surprised,” the 36-year-old told Submission Radio on Friday (26 September). “If you want to get something done right, do it right the first time. That’s the lesson I learned.
“He’s doing other things in his own life, you know; he’s made the money he wanted to make. But again, me as well, I don’t want to be waiting around. I’ve moved on; I just want to fight. So, we’ll see.”
The Nigerian-born New Zealand fighter also shared that his time away from competition has been used for reflection, recovery, and improving his craft. He added that fans can expect a “smarter, sharper, and more dangerous” version of him when he returns to the cage.
Adesanya’s comments come amid speculation linking him to potential rematches against Strickland or Dricus du Plessis, but the 35-year-old appeared uninterested in rekindling old rivalries.
“The division moves fast, and so do I,” he said. “When I come back, it’ll be on my terms—and whoever’s there will get it.”
While the UFC has yet to announce his next bout officially, insiders suggest Adesanya could return in early 2026, depending on match negotiations and event scheduling.
