Fighter Israel Adesanya praised his colleague and former UFC middleweight champion, Robert Whittaker, after Whittaker returned to winning ways.
Adesanya had defeated Whittaker to become the 185-pound champion at UFC 243.
He then beat him again in their title rematch at UFC 271. Now, both fighters are on a mission to reclaim the gold.
Adesanya returns on August 17 at UFC 305 to challenge current champion Dricus du Plessis in the main event in Perth, Australia.
Meanwhile, Whittaker is riding a winning streak after victories over Paulo Costa and, most recently, Ikram Aliskerov.
Adesanya said in an interview with ABC News: “I fought the hometown hero, Rob Whittaker, who had an amazing win a week or two ago. But I fought him here, defending my belt for the first time on enemy soil.”
He added: “Today I said, you know what? I’ll make it a show. And I did.”
He continued: “Whittaker’s knockout over Aliskerov was beautiful. Rob is that guy.”
He further remarked: “We’ve fought twice. We always have history, but it was nice to see him back in the win column. He’s coming for me, so I have to stay ready.”
As Israel Adesanya respects Whittaker, he expects the same from Du Plessis.
Adesanya is always irked by Du Plessis defining himself as the first true African champion in the UFC.
Why does renowned referee Marc Goddard refuse to officiate UFC champion Leon Edwards’ fights?
Adesanya said: “For me, you have to honor those who came before you.”
He continued: “He’s the guy saying, I’m the real African champion.”
He concluded: “But look, you wouldn’t be able to do what you’re doing in your homeland if it wasn’t for me, Francis Ngannou, and Kamaru (Usman).”
Israel Adesanya finished by saying: “Don’t pave the way for yourself. So you have to respect your elders, and I’ll make sure I do that with him.”
