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ItalianoIsrael Adesanya Finds New Challenge in RAF Wrestling After MMA Career
Israel Adesanya, a former UFC middleweight champion, has found a new challenge in RAF Wrestling, an emerging organization that provides a platform for retired MMA fighters to stay competitive without the physical toll of their previous sport.
What's the appeal of RAF Wrestling for Israel Adesanya and others?
RAF Wrestling is an opportunity for fighters like Israel Adesanya to continue competing at a high level without the risk of injury that comes with MMA. The organization has gained attention in combat sports, showcasing some of the best wrestlers in the world while also providing a outlet for MMA fighters to compete without accumulating damage from punches and kicks.
Who's competing in RAF Wrestling?
On the recent card, you have retired MMA legends Frankie Edgar, Clay Guida, and Ben Askren competing. All three men are in their 40s and have been retired from MMA for many years. Colby Covington, who is also on the card, is more recently retired and is also competing. Current fighters like UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan and former UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad are also participating.
What does this mean for Israel Adesanya's future?
For fighters who've given everything to the cage and aren't ready to walk away from competition entirely, RAF offers something rare: a second act. It's a chance to chase the thrill of competing at a high level again, without asking the body to absorb the kind of punishment that ends careers and shortens lives. Whether it becomes a long-term home for retired legends like Edgar and Guida, or simply a proving ground for active fighters like Tsarukyan and Muhammad to stay sharp, RAF is filling a void that MMA itself created.
What's next for Israel Adesanya and RAF Wrestling?
In a sport built on attrition, RAF Wrestling is providing a much-needed outlet for fighters to continue competing without the physical toll of MMA. With a growing roster of competitors, including Israel Adesanya, it's clear that RAF Wrestling is here to stay.