Former two-division UFC champion Alex Pereira has extended a compelling message of encouragement to his rival, Israel Adesanya, as Adesanya prepares for his comeback at UFC Seattle.
Former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya aims to secure his first victory in three years this Saturday when he steps into the Octagon against Joe Pyfer at UFC Seattle. Adesanya is currently facing a three-fight losing streak, having last competed in February 2025 at UFC Saudi Arabia, where he suffered a TKO defeat to Nassourdine Imavov.
Adesanya’s last win was against Alex Pereira, who held the middleweight championship at the time. The two fighters share a storied history that predates their MMA careers, tracing back to their professional kickboxing days. After enduring three combined losses (across kickboxing and MMA) to Pereira, Adesanya dramatically knocked out Pereira at UFC 287, a finish widely regarded as one of the most astonishing in UFC history.
Despite their intense past rivalry, Adesanya and Pereira have since moved past their hostility, sharing a widely circulated, cordial moment at UFC 312 last year. Ahead of UFC Seattle, Pereira composed a touching tribute and a motivational message for Adesanya as he seeks to end his current losing streak.Alex Pereira to Israel Adesanya: ‘Go show your best’ at UFC Seattle
In a recent social media post, Pereira conveyed a respectful message to Adesanya concerning his upcoming fight at UFC Seattle.
“Saturday is fight night once again. Much respect to Israel Adesanya — we’ve shared the octagon and moments that became part of my journey. That loss taught me a lot; it pushed me to evolve not only as a fighter, but as a man. I grew, matured, and used it as fuel to reach a higher level in the sport and in life,” Pereira stated regarding Adesanya.
“Regardless of rivalry, I know what it means to step in there — the years of work, the pressure, the sacrifice. That’s why I wish you a great fight. Go in focused and show your best. We keep evolving. See you at the top CHAMA.”
Pereira himself is slated to pursue a historic achievement, aiming to become the UFC’s first three-division champion. He is set to make his heavyweight debut against Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title at UFC Freedom 250 this summer, while undisputed champion Tom Aspinall recovers from multiple eye injuries.
In the interim, Pereira will be closely watching UFC Seattle this weekend, seemingly taking a strong interest in Adesanya’s comeback performance.