Former two-division UFC champion Alex Pereira has sent a motivational message to Israel Adesanya ahead of his rival’s return to the octagon at UFC Seattle.
Adesanya, who is set to face Joe Pyfer this Saturday, is aiming for his first victory in three years. He has suffered three consecutive losses and hasn’t appeared in the octagon since his TKO defeat to Nassourdine Imavov in February.
Adesanya’s last win came against Alex Pereira at UFC 287, where he knocked out his long-time rival with whom he shares a rich history in kickboxing and MMA. Despite their past animosity, the fighters now show mutual respect.
In a recent Instagram post, Pereira shared his message: “Saturday is fight night once again. Much respect to Israel Adesanya — we’ve shared the octagon and moments that became part of my journey. That loss taught me a lot; it pushed me to evolve not only as a fighter, but as a man. I grew, matured, and used it as fuel to reach a higher level in the sport and in life.”
He added: “Regardless of rivalry, I know what it means to step in there — the years of work, the pressure, the sacrifice. That’s why I wish you a great fight. Go in focused and show your best. We keep evolving. See you at the top CHAMA.”
Pereira himself is preparing to become the UFC’s first three-division champion when he faces Ciryl Gane in his heavyweight debut for the interim title this summer. He will be keeping a close eye on Adesanya’s fight at UFC Seattle.