UFC Star Israel Adesanya Visits Osun, Set to Receive Honor from His Hometown

Nigeria-born mixed martial artist Israel Adesanya recently visited his hometown in Osun State, where the UFC star is scheduled to be recognized by the community of Esa-Oke.

Chief Akin Onifade, the Sajuku of Esa-Oke, informed the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday that Adesanya would be honored during the upcoming Esa-Oke Day celebration later this year.

According to NAN, Adesanya, who holds dual Nigerian-New Zealand citizenship, arrived in Lagos on Wednesday, shortly after his recent UFC 305 match against South African fighter Dricus Du Plessis.

Adesanya, who has an impressive record with five consecutive UFC wins, secured the interim middleweight title in April 2019 after defeating Kelvin Gastelum, and later unified the title by triumphing over Robert Whittaker in October of the same year.

Onifade shared that Adesanya received a warm, carnival-like reception at the palace of the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Alayeluwa Adeyemi Adediran, on Thursday.

“The UFC star, who hails from Esa-Oke, was welcomed to the palace by traditional drummers and a jubilant crowd, including excited youths, family members, and other distinguished Nigerians,” Onifade said.

The Owa-Omiran expressed his joy and gratitude for Adesanya’s achievements and offered prayers for his continued success and glory.

The Owa-Omiran also announced that Adesanya, who belongs to the Ananye ruling house, will be formally honored during the Esa-Oke Day celebrations later this year.In his response, Adesanya expressed his appreciation to the traditional ruler and the entire community for their warm welcome and the honor bestowed upon him.

He also shared his excitement about returning to his roots and vowed to continue making Nigeria proud.The reception was attended by notable figures including High Chief James Ajewole, the Asalu of Esa-Oke; High Chief Olatunde Esan, the Odogun of Esa-Oke; Chief Wale Aregbesola, the Looyin of Esa-Oke; and Chief Akinwumi Onifade, the Sajuku of Esa-Oke. Others in attendance were Chief Olabode Ajayi, the Obalogbo of Esa-Oke; Chief Ajiboye, the Osolu of Esa-Oke; Chief Akanni Omole, the Aro of Erinjinyan, Esa-Oke; and Oba Akande Adebiyi, the Loja of Kajola-Esa-Oke.