Israel Adesanya's TKO Loss at UFC Seattle: Zayn Malik & Francis Ngannou Offer Support

Despite a TKO loss at UFC Seattle, former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya received a significant outpouring of support, notably from acclaimed singer Zayn Malik. On Saturday, Adesanya faced his fourth consecutive UFC defeat, falling to the surging Joe Pyfer.

The start of the UFC Seattle main event for Adesanya, the Nigerian-born Kiwi, was promising. He displayed sharpness and precision, showcasing impressive takedown defense and agile footwork. His accurate jabs and calf kicks kept Pyfer on the back foot.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – MARCH 28: (R-L) Joe Pyfer punches Israel Adesanya of Nigeria in a middleweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Climate Pledge Arena on March 28, 2026, in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

However, in the second round, the tide of the fight turned. Pyfer began to aggressively pressure Adesanya, dictating the pace and landing powerful strikes, including a series of heavy uppercuts. In the latter half of Round 2, Pyfer managed to take Adesanya to the canvas, attempting a rear-naked choke. When that failed, "Bodybagz" unleashed a barrage of powerful ground and pound on the 37-year-old, leaving him bloodied.

Adesanya was forced to cover up and had no answer for these potent blows, prompting the referee to halt the fight moments later, declaring Pyfer the winner by TKO in Round 2.

Joe Pyfer lands a punch on Israel Adesanya — SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – MARCH 28: (R-L) Joe Pyfer punches Israel Adesanya of Nigeria in a middleweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Climate Pledge Arena on March 28, 2026, in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

While many fans and analysts speculated that "The Last Stylebender" might consider retirement after four straight losses, Adesanya made it clear post-fight that he has no plans to step away anytime soon. He declared:

“You just keep going again and again and again. I'm not f***ing leaving, you'll never stop me. I might get beaten, but I'll always remain undefeated.”

Check out Israel Adesanya’s comments below: