Israel Adesanya Predicts a Resurgence of the Golden Era of African MMA

Israel Adesanya believes Africa is on the verge of taking over the world of mixed martial arts. The former UFC middleweight champion has always been a proud advocate for African MMA, and he insists the next wave of elite fighters from the continent is about to take center stage.

Right now, the MMA world is filled with dominant Dagestani fighters who have been ruling the sport. But Adesanya is confident that the landscape will soon shift, bringing a wave of powerhouse athletes from Nigeria, Ghana, and the Congo.

He envisions a future where the toughest contenders in the UFC will come with African surnames, striking fear in their opponents.

Adesanya Says African Fighters Will Dominate

Izzy has seen patterns emerge in MMA over the years. Different regions have taken turns leading the sport: Brazilian jiu-jitsu specialists had their era, American wrestlers had their reign, and now, Dagestani fighters are on top. But Adesanya predicts the next dominant force will come from Africa.

Izzy / Adesanya, 35, points to the steady growth of MMA in Africa, citing promotions like African KO in Nigeria, which continue to produce top-tier talent.

With fighters coming up through these regional circuits, the groundwork is being laid for an African takeover of the sport. The hunger, the talent, and the raw skill are all there. It is only a matter of time before African fighters make their presence undeniable.

UFC Pushes for an Event in Africa

One major step toward this shift is the UFC’s plan to host its first-ever event in Africa. It is a move that Adesanya, along with fellow African stars Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou, has been pushing for over the years.

Even though Ngannou has left the UFC, and Adesanya and Usman no longer hold belts, the organization still has an African champion in Dricus Du Plessis of South Africa. The UFC sees the potential of the African market, and an event on the continent could be the spark needed to ignite a full-fledged revolution in the sport.

Adesanya’s Recent Loss

Adesanya suffered a tough loss to Du Plessis at UFC 305 last August. In a grueling fight, Du Plessis secured a fourth-round submission win, leaving Adesanya with unfinished business.

Now, Adesanya is gearing up for a showdown against Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia. A win would push him one step closer to another shot at Du Plessis, setting up a massive rematch with high stakes. Adesanya thrives in big moments, and he is determined to prove that he is still one of the best middleweights in the world.

Boxing or MMA? Ngannou’s Next Move

Ngannou’s next big fight is a hot topic in combat sports. He is expected to defend his PFL heavyweight super-fights title in the second half of 2025, but before that, he’s likely to step back into the boxing ring.

Izzy / IG / There has been growing speculation about a clash between Ngannou and former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder.

If that fight happens, Adesanya has made it clear. He is backing his fellow African warrior to pull off a huge victory. Ngannou has already proven he can hang with elite boxers, and a win over Wilder would further solidify his legacy.

However, Adesanya’s prediction is not just a hopeful thought. It is a warning. The golden era of African MMA is near, and when it arrives, the world will have no choice but to take notice.

Francis Ngannou’s Role in African MMA

While no longer part of the UFC, Francis Ngannou is still making major moves for African MMA. His deal with the PFL (Professional Fighters League) included a key clause: He would become the president of PFL Africa, overseeing the sport’s development on the continent.

The league is set to launch in 2025, with a full season of events showcasing the best African talent. Ngannou is not just focused on business. He is still an active fighter and is expected to compete in both boxing and MMA this year.