Former UFC champion Robert Whittaker created a timeless moment at Israel Adesanya’s open workout
In preparation for his title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 293, Israel Adesanya recently conducted an open workout. Adesanya expressed his joy at defending his title in his home turf of Australia, where he originally secured the belt in 2019.
During the open workout session, Adesanya engaged with the crowd, inquiring if anyone had attended his open workout in 2019. He requested those who had to raise their arms.
In a memorable and heartwarming moment, Robert Whittaker, the former champion whom Adesanya dethroned, proudly raised his arm. Whittaker is widely cherished by fans for his humble and down-to-earth personality, making it unsurprising that he openly acknowledged the past defeat.
Elsewhere, Adesanya focused on his rivalry with Strickland.
Responding to Sean Strickland’s continuous remarks about his connection with China, Israel Adesanya had a playful retort. In an interview with Sky Sports, Adesanya humorously claimed responsibility for Strickland’s first passport, enabling him to travel to Australia for their highly anticipated showdown at UFC 293.
Adesanya quipped:
“The worst thing he can find about me is that I acted in China. I acted on a sketch in China. And then he’s just like using that as like, ‘Oh look at this guy!’ Okay, yeah, I traveled. I worked around the world. You’ve never even left the country. [laughs] Holy f**k, that’s funny. I actually just got him his first passport. Literally. I – this is breaking news – I just got him his first passport to leave the country.”