Israel Adesanya’s Coach Advises Him to Emulate Alexander Volkanovski for UFC Return

Alexander Volkanovski mirrored an achievement of his friend and teammate at UFC 314`s main event.

Following consecutive knockout defeats, questions arose about whether ‘The Great’ could regain his position at the sport`s pinnacle.

Volkanovski quelled these doubts by defeating Diego Lopes on April 12, claiming the vacant featherweight title after a hard-fought match in Miami.

Israel Adesanya also reclaimed his title in Florida, knocking out Alex Pereira in their rematch two years prior to become a two-time middleweight champion.

With Adesanya currently on a three-fight winless streak, ‘The Last Stylebender’ appears to be considering another attempt at competition at 35 years old.

Eugene Bareman, Adesanya’s head coach, stated that Alexander Volkanovski has set a precedent for Israel Adesanya to follow.

Even Alexander Volkanovski acknowledged the validity of his doubters` concerns leading up to UFC 314, recognizing the challenge ahead.

While Israel Adesanya may not immediately contend for a title upon his return, his next fight will likely involve questions about his ability to compete against top-tier 185-pound fighters.

In a Submission Radio interview, Eugene Bareman provided an update on Adesanya, mentioning that despite it being early stages, the former two-time champion is considering a return to the Octagon.

“It’s not at the forefront of my thoughts. Israel is on a break in America. In a brief conversation in Volk’s changing room, he mentioned, ‘I think I’m going to fight again.’ These are the initial discussions we’re having.”

Bareman believes that if Adesanya is serious about returning and aiming for a comeback victory, he must match the standard set by Volkanovski.

The City Kickboxing head coach has frequently emphasized Adesanya’s need for complete dedication during training camps to compete at the highest level.

Bareman emphasized Volkanovski`s unparalleled work ethic and dedication, describing ‘The Great’ as setting the benchmark for Adesanya should he aim to revitalize his career.

“Izzy understands the necessary commitment and dedication in this sport. We’ve just witnessed one of our closest friends, someone around Izzy’s age, perhaps older, win a world championship. We know firsthand how diligently he works. Age becomes irrelevant with such work ethic. We observe his dedication and recognize it as the example.”

“That’s the standard, the level we need to reach, and Izzy is aware of the significant commitment involved. Dedicating oneself like Volk is a substantial commitment for any fighter, particularly one later in their career. These are the considerations Izzy is currently weighing.”

Having lost to Nassourdine Imavov in February, a rising contender in the middleweight division, it might be risky for Israel Adesanya to immediately face another emerging fighter.

However, the UFC often creates such matchups, presenting Adesanya with the opportunity to prove his relevance or allowing his opponent to secure a career-defining victory.

Potential opponents include Caio Borralho and Anthony Hernandez, while a rematch with Sean Strickland could also be considered.

Adesanya would undoubtedly seek to avenge his loss to Strickland, and after Strickland`s defeat to Dricus du Plessis, a second win over ‘The Last Stylebender’ would significantly boost Strickland`s momentum.