Former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is currently one of the biggest stars in the sport. The 35-year-old is known for his outstanding striking skills and speed across the Octagon. Before taking a break from the sport, ‘The Last Stylebender’ was one of the most active champions in the UFC. He is one of those rare fighters who managed to beat Alex Pereira when he competed in the middleweight division.

His journey to the top of the division is a source of inspiration to many. His parents supported him on his journey and helped him achieve his dreams. Let’s find out what they do.

All we know about Israel Adesanya’s childhood in Africa

Unlike most MMA fighters, Israel Adesanya was born into a pretty wealthy family in Nigeria. The 35-year-old was born in Lagos, Nigeria, and was the eldest of five children. When he was young, Adesanya had domestic servants who helped him take a bath as well. He was later trolled for this by the fans on social media, but it hardly bothered him. ‘Izzy’ always had a keen liking towards fighting and initially enrolled himself in Taekwondo. However, he was later removed by his mother from the sport because of an injury. In the year 1999, Adesanya and his family moved to Ghana for 10 months, but their stay there was pretty short.

Adesanya’s parents always wanted their children to have a proper education and, as a result, they decided to search for better opportunities. To get a better education, Izzy and his family moved to New Zealand at the age of 10 so that the children could have a proper education. However, the former middleweight champion decided to try his hands at MMA. While he did complete high school, the 35-year-old was never quite interested in taking up studies as a profession.

Izzy had stated previously that he was fortunate enough to come from a wealthy family and had a pleasant childhood. On most occasions, his parents are present during his fights and have helped him in his journey. But what exactly do his parents do for a living? Let us take a closer look at it.

What do Israel Adesanya’s parents do for a living?

The former two-time UFC middleweight champion is the son of Femi Adesanya. Adesanya Sr. is an accountant by profession and has seen his son make a name for himself in the UFC. The 35-year-old also acknowledges this fact and never shies away from sharing his love for his father. ‘Izzy’ who is fairly active on social media, time and again, shares the post about his parents.

Although they stay in different cities, they constantly engage to discuss the fights. The former champion knows the amount of hard work his parents have put on and often gets them luxurious gifts. He once took to his X account to share an update after gifting his father a $200,000 Bentley. Adesanya wrote, “Upgraded my pops cuz he the realest on my team!. I don’t wait for my loved ones to pass on before I give them their (bouquet image).” 

Not only Adesanya’s father, but his mother has also played a massive role in his success. Taiwo Adesanya is a nurse by profession and along with his husband helped ‘Izzy’ achieve his dreams. The former champion has made a habit of gifting his parents expensive cars. While his father received a Bentley, his mother ended up with a new Porsche.

Currently, his parents will be hoping that their son can win back the middleweight title at UFC 305. His next clash has already gathered a lot of hype and ‘Izzy’ has made it clear that he is coming for heads this time around. Do you think Adesanya can back his words with action at UFC 305 against Dricus Du Plessis? Let us know in the comments below.