Reigning Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) middleweight champion Israel Adesanya is leveling up — literally — after scoring his jiu-jitsu purple belt under longtime coach and ADCC champ Andre Galvao.
Perhaps we’re approaching his first career submission?
“I smoked with Snoop Dogg, I surfed worth Kelly Slater, I rolled with Andre Galvao,” Adesanya wrote on Instagram. “This has been the highlight of my trip so far, being surprised with a purple belt. Although initially I didn’t feel like I deserve this, I trust his judgement and feel I have earned this. In my short time here I’ve felt my jiu jitsu level up. I love knocking people out, but it’s time to start tapping them out!”
Shoot first, ask questions later.
Adesanya (20-0) is in talks to move up in weight for a champion vs. champion “super fight” against Jan Blachowicz, which may be followed by a heavyweight showdown against former 205-pound kingpin Jon Jones.
Assuming this contender doesn’t get to him first.