How Israel Adesanya Spent His First $1M in the UFC

In just four short years, Israel Adesanya has went from relative unknown to being one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts today.

The first eight years of his career in combat sports saw the Nigerian-born New Zealander jump between competing across the globe in MMA, boxing, and kickboxing, including in GLORY, where he rose to challenge for the title.

Although Adesanya was a highly touted fighter amongst the hardcore fans of the sport, it wasn’t until his UFC debut at UFC 221 in February 2018 that his stock jumped through the rough.

A ‘performance of the night’ winning debut saw his net around $100,000 and within one year he found himself in the Octagon opposite MMA icon Anderson Silva. Fast forward another twelve months and Adesanya had UFC gold wrapped around his waist and thanks to his entertaining fighting style and personality he was a true fan favourite.

Overall, Adesanya has defended his UFC middleweight title (officially) three times and even jumped up to light heavyweight with ambitions of being a double champ, however, he lost a decision to then champ Jan Bachowicz.

Ahead of his title defense this Saturday against Robert Whitakker at UFC 271, we take a look at how Israel Adesanya spent his first million earned in the UFC, courtesy of GQ Sports.

Click here to see how MMA legend GSP spent his first million earned in the UFC.