UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones has openly supported the decision made by Israel Adesanya to go on a long hiatus away from UFC, stating that its something that helped him as well.
Taking those last three years off was one of the best decisions I’ve made: Jon Jones
“The Last Stylebender”, who was dethroned from his middleweight throne against Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in Sydney last month, recently announced that he is planning to take some time away from the fight game.
“I don’t make any excuses. Strickland got me on the night because he was the better fighter on the night. He did his work well, he had a good team behind him. Now I’m going to take time to look after myself, and I’m not going to fight for a long time. I’m definitely not going to retire because I know me, I’m not leaving like that. I know me. But if I did, I’m fine,” Adesanya told the The Rock radio station in New Zealand. “I don’t need to prove anything else. But I know what I can do and what I can change in my lifestyle to make my body adapt to where I need to be. I’m going to heal myself up. You won’t see me fight for a long time,” he added. [H/T BJPenn.com]
Jon Jones, who himself took three years away from the UFC, only to return and win the heavyweight gold, showed solidarity with Adesanya.
“Hey @stylebender I just want to let you know I support your decision to take a break from fighting. Taking those last three years off was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Always put YOU first brother. Protect your heart, protect your mimd & spirit. Proud of you Champ,” Jones wrote on X.
Hey @stylebender I just want to let you know I support your decision to take a break from fighting. Taking those last three years off was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Always put YOU first brother. Protect your heart, protect your mimd & spirit. Proud of you Champ.
— BONY (@JonnyBones) October 15, 2023
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