Nigerian-born UFC star, Israel Adesanya, has returned to his hometown in Osun State, Nigeria, where he will be honored by the people of Esa-Oke. According to Chief Akin Onifade, the Sajuku of Esa-Oke, Adesanya will be recognized at the Esa-Oke Day celebration later this year. The UFC middleweight champion was given a warm welcome at the palace of the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Alayeluwa Adeyemi Adediran, with traditional drummers and a crowd of enthusiastic youths and family members.
The Owa-Omiran praised Adesanya’s achievements, saying, “The elated Owa-Omiran was full of praises to God for the feats achieved by the young artist, and prayed extensively for his glory to continue to shine brighter and brighter to the glory of God.” Adesanya expressed gratitude to the traditional ruler and the community, promising to always make Nigeria proud. “Adesanya in his response said he was delighted to be back to his roots and promised to always make Nigeria proud,” Onifade said.
The reception was attended by several dignitaries, including the Asalu of Esa-Oke, High Chief James Ajewole, and the Odogun of Esa-Oke, High Chief Olatunde Esan. Adesanya’s visit comes after his recent loss of the UFC 305 crown to South African Dricus Du Plessis. Despite this, he remains a celebrated figure in Nigeria, known for his achievements in the UFC, including his interim middleweight title win against Kelvin Castelum in 2019. The honor bestowed upon him by the people of Esa-Oke is a testament to his enduring legacy and connection to his roots.
