The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, and the Minister of Youths and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, have congratulated Ogun State born UFC Middleweight Champion, Israel Adesanya, on his victory over Alex Pereira.
Adesanya knocked out Pereira in the second round at UFC 287 in Miami, the United States of America on Saturday, to reclaim his title.
Abiodun in a statement by Kunle Somorin, his Chief Press Secretary, on Sunday, commended Adesanya for making Nigeria and Ogun proud at the global stage.
He described the victory as a well-deserved one and hailed the UFC champion for his tenacity, doggedness and resilience towards recapturing his belt.
Abiodun, who expressed optimism that Adesanya will continue to dominate his category and move a notch higher on the ladder of his chosen sport, urged him not to lower his guard and continue to be a shining star to the youths of the state.
On his part, Dare said Adesanya had demonstrated the ‘never say die’ attitude of the average Nigerian to get back what belongs to him.
His words: “Congratulations Israel, you are truly the last stylebender. You have shown that you are a real champion. This ‘never say die’ attitude has got you back your belt. Nigeria is proud of you.”
The Minister also urged the new UFC Champion to continue to be a role model for the youth and an ambassador for the sport of Mixed Martial Arts in Nigeria which was recently recognised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development as a sports federation in the country.
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