Anthony Joshua Names Conor McGregor’s Stablemate Israel Adesanya as His “Favorite Athlete”

Tyson Fury’s rival Anthony Joshua called Conor McGregor’s stablemate from paradigm sports as one of his favorite athletes right now. Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua have one of the most bitter rivalries in the boxing world right now. Both of the ace pugilists have a dislike for each other. However, they do have some really wonderful connections in the MMA world of UFC.

In a recent Instagram live session, the former heavyweight champion of the world called the UFC middleweight champion of the world, Israel Adesanya, “one of his favorite athletes”. He put ‘The Last Stylebender’ a little above on his favorite list. The list also featured other current and former UFC champions such as Francis Ngannou, Kamaru Usman, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and the Irishman Conor McGregor.

The real reason he had such high regard for Adesanya was because of the Nigerian-born kickboxer’s ‘character’ and his ability to stay vibrant in high-pressure situations. Adesanya’s theatrics inside and outside the octagon also impressed Joshua, especially his dancing.

The duo, who also share Nigerian roots, recently joined boxing cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okolie in his title defense against Polish contender Michal Cieslak. The trio could be seen walking to the squared circle with the Nigerian flag in hand.

With their recent comments and actions, it is apparent that the compatriots share a really good bond. Adesanya also showed his support for Joshua.

Israel Adesanya wants Anthony Joshua to win against Oleksandr Usyk
Anthony Joshua is preparing for his rematch against Ukrainian Usyk, who relieved him of his titles the last time they met. However, this time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya has backed him to defeat Usyk in a match to be scheduled later this year.

“Anthony is a formidable guy,” Adesanya said in a press conference. “Usyk is a phenomenal guy. Wow, amazing. I believe that anybody can beat anybody on any given night, and I always root for my people.”