Israel Adesanya: Nigerian-born UFC Style Bender rocks Enyimba's iconic black kit as he embraces Nigerian football culture
Nigerian MMA icon Israel Adesanya has provided another reminder of his unrivalled style credentials after being spotted training in Enyimba's classic away jersey.
Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that the New Zealand professional mixed martial artist is of Nigerian descent with his full name as Israel Oluwafemi Owolabi Adesanya.
Israel Adesanya and Enyimba
Known as the 'Style Bender' for his unique fashion sense and combat style, the two-time former UFC middleweight champion shared pictures on Instagram of himself rocking the People's Elephant's famous black strip at the gym.
"Soaring to new heights...pray you keep up the pace," Adesanya captioned the photos, showcasing the iconic Enyimba crest and colours.
It's just the latest example of the 34-year-old repping his Nigerian roots through the global Appeal of domestic football jerseys.
Enyimba are the current NPFL defending champions after new Super Eagles boss Finidi George led them to the title last season in his first coaching role.
The People's Elephant remain firmly in contention to make it ten league crowns this campaign as they target retaining their hard-earned status.
And few personalities better personify the increasing mainstream cultural capital of Nigerian club football than Adesanya and his bold fashion statements.
The UFC and MMA star is also sponsored by Stake, who are Enyimba’s shirt sponsors, making it easier for him to use his platform to fly the flag for the domestic game.
His latest Enyimba getup is likely to inspire the next generation of young Nigerian talents dreaming of making it big like the ‘Style Bender.'
For the nine-time defending NPFL champions, having a fighter of Adesanya's global renown repping their colours can only be a positive amid their ongoing pursuit of success.
It's one more sign that the power bases of Nigerian football are stretching far beyond the country's borders to make an impact on the world stage through Nigerian-born global stars.
From the Octagon to the gym, the 'Style Bender' continues setting trends - this time with an NPFL-inspired look backing Enyimba's domestic dominance and allure.
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