Israel Adesanya, widely recognized and celebrated in the world of UFC, has been drawing more than just fight fans’ attention as of late. While his prowess within the octagon is unquestionable, there’s another facet of his life that’s been capturing the spotlight, his genuine and deep-seated passion for anime.
As we eagerly count down the days to his highly anticipated bout against Sean Strickland at UFC 293 in Sydney, Australia, it’s worth delving into this captivating aspect of Adesanya’s identity. In a recent YouTube video presented by GQ Sports, Adesanya graciously peeled back the layers of his persona to reveal his profound affection for anime.
What sets this revelation apart is his willingness to go beyond mere fandom, as he boldly ranks his top five favorite anime series.
This unexpected revelation provides a unique window into the diverse interests that shape Adesanya‘s world, transcending the boundaries of combat sports and introducing us to a whole new side of the fighter. In that video, Adesanya mentioned his favorite anime that cracked his top five.
Israel Adesanya ranks his top five animes
Dragon Ball Z: Among his anime selections, “Dragon Ball Z” holds a special place in Adesanya’s heart. He fondly reminisces about the days when “Dragon Ball Z” was a shared experience among kids everywhere.

He vividly recalls the excitement of discussing the latest episodes with friends at school, especially during the era of Goku’s awe-inspiring Super Saiyan transformations and epic battles against formidable foes like Kid Buu.
Naruto: Adesanya’s anime journey took a more profound turn with “Naruto Shonen Jump.” He distinctly remembers the episode that marked his transformation into a dedicated viewer, episode 48, featuring the epic Gaara vs. Rock Lee battle.

This pivotal moment ignited a deep fascination, propelling him on an adventure through all 720 episodes of the series, a testament to his commitment to exploring the intricate narratives woven into the world of anime.
Spriggan: Another addition to Adesanya’s top five, stands out for its futuristic setting and unapologetically intense scenes filled with bloodshed.

Adesanya admires anime that fearlessly depicts visceral combat, and “Spriggan” perfectly aligns with his taste for intense storytelling.
Jujutsu Kaisen: It is yet another anime that has Adesanya completely enthralled. In the video, he candidly admits to still following the series at the time of recording, underscoring its enduring appeal. The universe of “Jujutsu Kaisen,” set within a school for sorcerers battling dark forces, has captured his imagination.

The captivating fight scenes and monstrous adversaries within the series have solidified its place among his top five anime selections.
Death Note: A recommendation from friends, swiftly became a favorite of Israel Adesanya. He was captivated by the thrilling storyline and the intricate manner in which the Shinigami (death gods) made their presence felt.

The well-crafted narrative, characterized by constant intrigue and moral dilemmas, kept him hooked from the very beginning to the dramatic conclusion.
As the world anticipates Israel Adesanya’s next captivating performance in the octagon, it’s clear that his passion for anime adds depth and diversity to his persona, highlighting the multifaceted nature of this remarkable UFC fighter.
Beyond the punches and kicks, Adesanya’s genuine love for the world of anime demonstrates that his interests, much like his fighting style, are dynamic and ever-evolving. We eagerly await both his anime recommendations and his upcoming match, as he continues to carve his legacy both inside and outside the octagon.
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