UFC Honors Adesanya: A Celebration of a Legendary Career

After learning that his historic 2019 fight with Kelvin Gastelum would be entered into the UFC Hall of Fame, former two-time middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has expressed thanks, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Along with other iconic bouts like Forrest Griffin vs. Stephan Bonnar, Matt Hughes vs. Frank Trigg II, and Anderson Silva vs. Chael Sonnen, the five-round interim middleweight title fight at UFC 236—which Adesanya won by unanimous decision—will be included in the promotion's Fight Wing as part of the class of 2025.

"Very appreciative," Adesanya said in Sydney to The Mac Life.

Before the fifth round, the New Zealander, who was born in Nigeria, thought back on his famous declaration that he was ready to die in the octagon.

"I believe that was the most authentic moment I've ever experienced in the cage," Adesanya continued.

I tried to kill him in retaliation because I meant every single word of it. He is also a difficult man to murder. I was not afraid at the time, and I was not afraid of dying. I simply thought, "I'm going to die trying, but if this is how I go out, this is how I go out."

I tried to kill him in retaliation because I meant every single word of it. He is also a difficult man to murder. I was not afraid at the time, and I was not afraid of dying. I simply thought, "I'm going to die trying, but if this is how I go out, this is how I go out."

Dana White, the CEO of the UFC, praised the fight as one of the best he has ever seen.

With the interim championship at stake, this was a full-fledged battle. Congratulations on a battle that will never be forgotten, Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum! White stated.

This summer, in Las Vegas, the 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held.