Adesanya fourth straight loss UFC as Nigerian star falls to Joe Pyfer but vows to keep fighting despite setbacks

Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya suffered a fourth consecutive defeat on Saturday night in Seattle, United States, after a second-round technical knockout loss to American contender Joe Pyfer at UFC Fight Night 271.

Also read: Israel Adesanya’s future uncertain as retirement questions loom

The latest setback extends the Adesanya fourth straight loss UFC run, raising fresh questions about the 36-year-old’s future in the middleweight division despite his defiant response after the bout.

Pyfer secured victory at 4:18 of the second round, overwhelming Adesanya with sustained ground-and-pound after taking the fight to the canvas.

Referee Herb Dean intervened to stop the contest as the former champion was unable to defend effectively.

Adesanya, who entered the bout with a 24-5 professional record, began strongly, showcasing his trademark precision and distance control to dictate the opening round.

The Nigerian-born striker appeared composed, landing measured counter-strikes and managing the pace.

However, momentum shifted dramatically as Pyfer absorbed the early pressure and responded with powerful combinations before executing a decisive takedown.

In the second round, Pyfer pinned Adesanya against the fence, advanced position on the ground and unleashed a relentless barrage of strikes, culminating in the stoppage.

Despite the emphatic defeat, Adesanya delivered a resolute and emotional message in a post-fight interview that quickly gained traction online.

“I will keep going again and again and again. I’m not leaving. You can’t stop me,” Adesanya said, adding, “I might get beaten, but I’d always remain undefeated.”

The statement, both defiant and reflective, underscored the fighter’s enduring belief in his resilience, even as results continue to test his legacy.

The Adesanya fourth straight loss UFC streak follows previous defeats to Sean Strickland, Dricus du Plessis and Nassourdine Imavov, the latter of whom stopped him in February 2025.

While the run of losses signals a challenging phase in his career, Adesanya’s refusal to retreat offers a powerful glimpse into the mindset that once defined his rise to the शीर्ष of the sport.