Nigerian-born UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya recently returned to his ancestral home in Osun State, where he is set to receive a special honor from the people of Esa-Oke.
Chief Akinwumi Onifade, the Sajuku of Esa-Oke, announced on Friday that Adesanya will be celebrated during the Esa-Oke Day festivities later this year. This honor comes as Adesanya, who has been a prominent figure in mixed martial arts, was warmly received by his hometown.
The fighter, who arrived in Lagos on Wednesday, made the visit shortly after his defeat to South African Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305. Despite this setback, Adesanya’s achievements in the sport remain notable, including his impressive run of five consecutive UFC victories and his interim middleweight title win against Kelvin Gastelum in April 2019.
Onifade described Adesanya’s homecoming as a jubilant affair. “The UFC star received a carnival-like welcome at the palace of the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Alayeluwa Adeyemi Adediran,” he said. Traditional drummers accompanied Adesanya’s arrival, which was celebrated by an enthusiastic crowd, including family members and local dignitaries.
The Owa-Omiran expressed profound pride in Adesanya’s accomplishments and offered prayers for his continued success. “The esteemed Owa-Omiran announced that Israel Adesanya will be honored during the Esa-Oke Day celebration later this year,” Onifade added.
During his visit, Adesanya conveyed his appreciation to the traditional ruler and the community. “He expressed his joy at returning to his roots and promised to continue making Nigeria proud,” Onifade said.
The reception was attended by several prominent figures including the Asalu of Esa-Oke, High Chief James Ajewole; the Odogun of Esa-Oke, High Chief Olatunde Esan; and the Loja of Kajola-Esa-Oke, Oba Akande Adebiyi, among others.
