People often make tattoos that possess a significant meaning to them. We’re sure that’s also the case with Israel Adesanya. He’s a Nigerian-born fighter from New Zealand with his body covered with several tattoos; 11 to be exact! As his fans, we’re well aware of your curiosity. Aren’t you eager to learn the story behind each one of Israel Adesanya’s tattoos?
If yes, let’s just say that it’s your lucky day! Here, we will be presenting you with the meanings behind each one of Adesanya’s tattoos. So, what are you waiting for? Dig into the article now!
1. The BROKEN NATIVE Tattoo
Adesanya got the capitalized, “BROKEN NATIVE” tattoo when he was just 22 years old. This was his first-ever tattoo as well. When you take a look at his body, you’ll first notice this art since it is an extremely huge tattoo.
Talking about its meaning, the tattoo reminds him of the life he had before and the life he has today. While talking about the story behind it, Israel said,
“For me, I’ve always been the underdog in everything. It’s kind of like my whole life story. I was told by many I’ll never amount to anything and I have relished that role of people doubting me.”
In a way, his chest tattoo also constantly reminds him of the harsh criticism he’s received as a young athlete. In addition, it is also the symbol of the great hard work he’s put into his fighting career.
2. The African Piece Tattoo
Just below the capital letters, the ex-boxer has the map of Africa with Lagos and Nigeria outlined carefully. The story behind this is simple – he comes from Africa, typically, from the areas of Lagos and Nigeria. So, it is an ode to his homeland.
Furthermore, it’s a simple tattoo with a deep story behind it. Despite moving to New Zealand for his career, it seems the UFC champion still has special connections with the place where he was born and raised.
3. Naruto & Avatar Tattoo
The mixed-martial artist got a cool Naruto & Avatar tattoo made on 5th April 2017. The ink covers most of his stomach and looks quite extraordinary. However, its meaning is simple.
According to Israel, he got this tattoo to commemorate his two favorite anime. If you’ve been following him for long, then you’ll know that he’s a great anime fan.
Over and above this, besides Naruto, the Avatar tattoo is special to him in a unique way. As a matter of fact, his nickname, “The Stylebender,” is inspired by the famous show, Avatar: The Last Airbender. Thus, it ought to be precious enough to be made into a tattoo!
4. Dead Pool Tattoo
4th on this list is a massive Dead Pool tattoo Israel Adesanya has on the left side of his ribcage. It is a famed fictional character that often appears in American comic books, produced by Marvel Comics.
Moreover, while explaining the meaning of this one, he said,
“I saw this picture on the cover of a comic one time and I though it looks cool.”
Further, he added that his wish to have the tattoo of a character made in his body was finally fulfilled with the Deadpool tattoo.
5. Calvin & Hobbes Tattoo
Likewise, on his right bicep, Adesanya has the tattoo of Calvin & Hobbes. These characters come from the famous American cartoonist, Bill Watterson’s, daily comic strip.
As per the former two-time fighting champion, the characters were his favorite while growing up. He also claimed that he has read all the comic books based on them. Furthermore, the particular art, to him, means the “power of imagination”.
6. Werewolf Tattoo
On 26th November 2016, the kickboxer got his next tattoo – a werewolf. He has this one on the inner side of his right arm. He made this art with his favorite tattoo artist, the Stained Skin Artist.
Israel has adopted its great fighting skills from the mighty werewolves. Thus, he wanted to have something made to symbolize that. Also, during an interview, he added,
“Being a werewolf would be so cool as I could be the anime that I love and a human at the same time.”
Additionally, werewolves are also related to loyalty and perseverance. Some people also think of the mythical creature as the symbol of “guidance in life”.
7. Blind Bandit Tattoo
Adesanya also has a Blind Bandit art on his arm. It is a somewhat unique tattoo of a female ninja sitting with her legs crossed. The ex-boxer himself named the tattoo, “The Blind Bandit”.
Sadly, the meaning of this tattoo is yet to be released. However, following his previous pattern, we believe that this art also comes from one of his favorite anime as a kid.
8. A Portrait Of His Dog
On one side of his neck, he’s got a portrait of his pet dog, “Millionaire”. Along with symbolizing the love he has for his pet, the portrait also reminds him of what’s ahead of him.
Furthermore, he explained the meaning of this one as,
“I named him ‘Millionaire’ for a reason because I knew what’s coming my way.”
9. “Montu”, The Hawk Tattoo
Similarly, on the other side of his neck, Israel Adesanya has a hawk tattoo. This is one of the two new tattoos he made in January 2023.
Initially, he did not reveal the actual meaning behind this tattoo. Instead, he posted a picture of it and let his fans decide the story behind it. However, eventually, he did reveal the symbolism.
According to Adesanya, he calls the hawk “Montu”. Revealing the reason behind getting the new tattoo, he wrote,
“When the storm comes, all animals hide, and the hawk flies over it and looks into its eyes. Montu, taker of all comers.”
10. Israel’s Huge Back Tattoo
The next one is a humongous tattoo of a dragon that covers the Stylebender’s back. It often goes unnoticed by many people. It is also the only tattoo on Israel’s body that is incomplete to this date.
Furthermore, it is a “crocodile dragon” and the style behind it is “Japanese-ey”, according to the tattoo owner.
11. Written Arabic Tattoo
Recently, along with the hawk tattoo, Adesanya also made a written Arabic tattoo above his left eyebrow. This is the only art that lies on his face.
In addition to posting a video of him getting the tattoo done, he also posted the meaning behind it. He wrote in his post,
“The old version of you must die before you come alive!”
This must symbolize a big change in the athlete’s life since he recently went through a bad breakup.
Also Read: List of Israel Adesanya Girlfriends & Love Affairs
