Israel Adesanya’s place in UFC history has now been officially immortalized. The former two-time UFC middleweight champion will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame today (Thursday), as his iconic 2019 war against Kelvin Gastelum earns a place in the promotion’s prestigious Fight Wing. The induction ceremony takes place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, marking a momentous chapter not only in Adesanya’s glittering career, but for African representation in global combat sports.
The five-round classic at UFC 236, which saw Adesanya claim the interim middleweight title via unanimous decision, is widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in UFC history. Now enshrined alongside epic contests such as Griffin vs. Bonnar, Hughes vs. Trigg II, and Silva vs. Sonnen, the bout showcased Adesanya’s blend of technical brilliance, mental toughness, and championship mettle.
More than a personal accolade, this milestone reverberates across Africa’s growing MMA landscape. Adesanya, born in Nigeria and raised in New Zealand, has consistently championed his African heritage throughout his rise. His success has ignited a new wave of fighters from the continent, inspired by his trailblazing achievements and fearless authenticity inside and outside the Octagon. 
