Adesanya’s Coach Believes He Can Reach Title Contention
In September 2024, Israel Adesanya had just lost to Dricus Du Plessis in the fourth round at UFC 305. City Kickboxing coach Mike Angove spoke optimistically about Adesanya’s ability to return to title contention, while discussing lessons from the defeat. The comments below reflect that 2024 perspective.
Positive Takeaways from UFC 305
Adesanya was competitive for much of the fight and had moments where he threatened Du Plessis before the champion secured a fourth-round submission. Angove pointed to positives in the performance and said fatigue contributed to the mistakes that ended the fight. Angove attributed the mistakes to fatigue.
The Road Back to Championship Contention
Angove expressed confidence that Adesanya could return to the title picture. Angove named no opponent or return date, but said Adesanya could rebuild toward another title run.
No Rush, but Time is of the Essence
Adesanya was 35 at UFC 305. Angove said there was no need to rush, while recognizing that time mattered in Adesanya’s career.
Coach’s Confidence in Adesanya’s Abilities
Looking Ahead
After UFC 305, Adesanya said he was not leaving the sport.
Since UFC 305, Adesanya later lost to Nassourdine Imavov by second-round knockout in February 2025 and to Joe Pyfer by second-round TKO in March 2026. These later results changed the picture from the one Angove was assessing after UFC 305. No future title opportunity is scheduled in the sources listed here.
Sources:
[1] Bloody Elbow: Coach Reacts to UFC 305 and a Path Back
[2] Video footage
[3] BJ Penn: Coach on Another Title Run
[4] MMA News: Coach’s Championship Outlook
[5] UFC: Official Results vs. Imavov
[6] MMA Fighting: Result vs. Pyfer
[7] UFC Athlete Profile: Israel Adesanya
Sources
Tags: MMA
