Israel Adesanya Reveals He Declined Roles in Major Films to Focus on UFC Career

Israel Adesanya Reveals He Declined Roles in Major Films to Focus on UFC Career

Former UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya has disclosed that he turned down acting roles in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever and Creed II, citing his commitment to mixed martial arts as the primary reason.

In a recent appearance at UFC 317 at T-Mobile Arena, Adesanya explained his decision, stating, “I was the UFC champion at the time. My focus was completely on defending my title and growing as a fighter. I didn’t want any distractions.”

The event also saw the newly crowned undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall in attendance. Following Jon Jones’ retirement, Aspinall was elevated from interim to full champion status. Adesanya and Aspinall shared a moment backstage, where the Nigerian-born star offered heartfelt advice to the Englishman.

“The interim title does mean something,” Adesanya told Aspinall. “If Robert Whittaker had beaten me, it would’ve counted as a title defense for him. When you beat someone with that belt on the line, it’s a defense. Never let anyone take that away from you.”

Aspinall previously captured the interim title in 2023 and had awaited a unification bout ever since. With Jones stepping away from the sport, Aspinall’s status was upgraded, fulfilling a long-anticipated dream. He is now expected to return to action later this year to defend his newly acquired title.