UFC middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya, has expressed his interest in stepping into the world of professional wrestling with WWE.
During a candid interview on ‘The Halfcast Podcast,’ Adesanya stated his passion for wrestling and the possibility of making occasional appearances in the squared circle.
Adesanya’s admiration for wrestling is no secret, and he expressed his desire to meet WWE legend Rey Mysterio and attend WrestleMania. While discussing the prospect of joining WWE, the champion clarified that he envisions doing stints, lasting for one, two, or maybe three appearances, rather than committing to a full-time role.
“I always thought maybe I would, but I think I’ll do like stints like one, two, or maybe three but not like a weekly thing,” Adesanya said.
The 34-year-old fighter explained his reservations about becoming a full-time performer in WWE. He emphasised his preference for writing his own story and not letting someone else dictate his character or storylines.
For Adesanya, taking on a regular wrestling schedule will feel like a disservice to himself and his identity.
“Personally I like to write my own story, I don’t want a writer writing my story and making me a heel this month and then the good guy this month. I’d rather just write my own story and yeah, I just feel like it’ll take away from me and it’ll be a disservice to myself. If I let someone else write my story and dictate how I’m perceived.”
The inspiration for Adesanya’s dream to perform in WWE stems from none other than wrestling icon Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Adesanya expressed admiration for The Rock’s mic skills and character, which left a profound impact on him.
“Watching him (The Rock) on the mic, just roast five people five minutes straight and that’s just like a stand-up show. You know, playing with the mic and that kind of stuff, it seeps in and then you take bits and pieces, you’re inspired by those things.”
While Adesanya’s future WWE career still somewhat remains a mystery, ‘Stylebender’ has a possible title defence lined up later this year in what will be a much-anticipated event.
