If Israel Adesanya does not like someone, he will definitely make sure the entire MMA world knows about it! Famous for his unfiltered statements and his unapologetic nature, the UFC middleweight champ never shies away from using tough words for all those who land in his bad books. And this is what makes his rivalries entertaining and exciting for all fans.
‘The Last Stylebender’ has been a part of many memorable rivalries over the years. From Alex Pereira to Jon Jones, numerous famous names have been at the receiving end. However, there is another unexpected name in the list of Adesanya’s rivals. Interestingly, it isn’t an MMA fighter or any individual. Instead, it is the UFC’s official energy drink Monster Energy.
Why does Israel Adesanya hate Monster Energy?
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Although it is an official partner for the UFC, Adesanya has never showcased a liking towards Monster Energy. Instead, he has made sure that all fans know about his reservations about the almost $60 Billion brand. Usually, fighters hold a can of Monster Energy when they emerge victorious in a fight inside the UFC octagon. However, Adesanya never does that!
Further, he also does not tolerate the energy drink cans at his table at any UFC press conference. While other fighters may pop the can to take a sip, Adesanya throws these cans away at the first glimpse.
However, ‘Stylebender’ has never publicly revealed the reason behind his behavior. But fans have a strong theory for this. According to many MMA enthusiasts, Adesanya probably has a problem with Hans Molenkamp, an executive at Monster Energy. This is because Molenkamp allegedly uses UFC for his self-promotion. Adesanya also accused Monster Energy of signing deals with all his opponents and rivals. “Isn’t it funny that any time I have to fight someone, Monster signs them immediately and becomes a fan of them,” he said.
Israel Adesanya throws shade at Sean Strickland for sponsoring Monster Energy at UFC 293 press conference
The UFC 293 press conference featuring Adesanya and his opponent Sean Strickland was filled with explosive exchanges. In the middle of the fiery back-and-forth, the UFC middleweight champ called Strickland out for his association with Monster Energy. Apparently, ‘Tarzan’ recently signed with the energy drink brand, and Adesanya did not appreciate it.
“When did you sign to Monster Energy? When did you sell your soul?” the 34-year-old said. “Tell me. You sold your soul recently,” he added. With these bold words, it is clear that things are still not cool between Adesanya and Monster Energy.
Alex Pereira mocks Israel Adesanya
Unsurprisingly, Israel Adesanya’s biggest rival, Alex Pereira is sponsored by Monster Energy. After defeating ‘Poatan’ at the UFC 287 main event, Adesanya decided to draw an imaginary cross at the Monster Energy logo in the middle of the octagon. Months later, Pereira might have taken a jab at his rival using the energy drink.
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While Adesanya is famous for throwing away Monster cans from UFC press conference tables, at the UFC 291 press conference, Adesanya opened a can of the energy drink and chugged it in one go.
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Many fans believed it to be an indirect shot at his arch-rival Adesanya. However, the UFC middleweight champ did not respond to it in any way. Now, Adesanya fights Strickland, another Monster-sponsored athlete. Will Adesanya stick to his old ways and make another controversial move against the energy drink brand? We can only wait to find out.
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