Israel Adesanya has announced he is leaving the CKB gym after a long tenure, confirming he spoke directly with coach Eugene to deliver the news in person. Adesanya described the departure as bittersweet but said it is the right decision for his career going forward.
Israel Adesanya has officially announced his departure from City Kickboxing gym, confirming he delivered the news personally to head coach Eugene in a face-to-face conversation. The 36-year-old described the split as bittersweet but made clear he believes the move is the right step for his career at this stage.
Adesanya, who competes at middleweight and is currently ranked eighth in the division, built the bulk of his professional career under the City Kickboxing banner. The Nigerian-born fighter carries a 24-6 record and has long been regarded as one of the most technically gifted strikers in the sport. Standing six-foot-four with an 80-inch reach, he averages 4.03 significant strikes landed per minute at 48 percent accuracy, numbers that reflect a calculated, high-output style refined over years at the Auckland-based gym.
The departure marks the end of what was clearly a deeply personal coaching relationship. By choosing to speak with Eugene directly rather than through representatives, Adesanya signaled the respect both parties held for one another even as the partnership comes to a close.
Why it matters
- Adesanya is ranked eighth at middleweight, meaning his next camp and coaching setup could directly influence his path back toward title contention
- City Kickboxing loses one of the most high-profile athletes in its history, a fighter who helped raise the gym's global reputation
- A change in training environment at age 36 often signals a calculated shift in approach, particularly for a striker looking to refine or reinvent elements of his game
