David Goggins explains what sets apart Israel Adesanya in the UFC
Photo byIsrael Adesanya
isn't quite sitting at the top of the UFC
middleweight division
anymore, but what he's done in the sport still echoes loudly—and for someone like
David Goggins
, it's not just the wins that matter. It's how he got them. After Adesanya's huge comeback win over
Alex Pereira
at
UFC 287
, Goggins, a man who's built his life around toughness and mental grit, explained what he sees in Adesanya that separates him from every other fighter in the game. And it's not just about the
knockout
.
David Goggins reveals why Israel Adesanya has the strongest mindset in the UFC
Israel Adesanya's
rivalry with
Alex Pereira
is the kind of story you almost can't script. Three losses—two in kickboxing, one in the UFC—and then, out of nowhere, a thunderous knockout that turned the tide. It was more than just a win; it was Adesanya reclaiming his narrative. And David Goggins noticed something not everyone did.
'No one, no one that I've ever seen—the way you celebrate, you celebrate in that moment,' Goggins told Adesanya during a conversation on the FREESTYLEBENDER YouTube channel.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here]
Esseps
Learn More
Undo
'You're not like, 'Oh, I won,' and then you come back and do it. [No], you already visualized what the f*** you were gonna do because when you beat him, it happened so fast with you pulling for those arrows… That s*** was sick.'
Israel Adesanya and David Goggins Chat Before Their BRUTAL Training Session
Turns out, Adesanya did visualize it—down to the bow-and-arrow celebration he pulled off in the Octagon. He'd rehearsed it in the shower, knowing exactly how he wanted that moment to go down.
But what really impressed Goggins wasn't the celebration—it was the road Adesanya had to walk just to get there. He'd torn his MCL just weeks before the fight. He could've pulled out. He didn't.
'You kept coming after the demon,' Goggins said. 'How fast you came back after you lost, that was purposeful.'
And the fight itself wasn't easy. Pereira was battering Adesanya's legs again—just like he did the first time. 'After the second [leg kick], I was like 'f***, again?'' Adesanya admitted. But he stuck through it, bounced off the cage, and cracked Pereira with a right hand that dropped him like a stone.
Also Read:
Dustin Poirier plans Lil Wayne walkout for UFC 318 retirement fight against Max Holloway
This is what Goggins is talking about. The knockouts, the belts, the highlights—they're great. But it's the mindset, the
visualization
, the refusal to quit when every reason to do so is staring you in the face—that's the real win. As Goggins said, 'That mindset? That's the separator.' And for Adesanya, it might be what keeps him in the conversation of all-time greats, even when he's not holding the belt.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
36 minutes ago
- Time of India
Tragedy strikes RCB's IPL title celebration: Cricketers mourn lives lost in stampede
AP Photo Current and former cricketers on Wednesday expressed grief over the lapses in preparation that marred Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL-winning celebrations and led to the death of several fans outside the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The celebratory mood in the city turned sombre just a day after RCB ended their 18-year-long wait for an IPL title. Lakhs of fans had gathered outside the stadium, overwhelming the police and resulting in complete chaos. Wednesday witnessed a bittersweet mix of jubilation and tragedy. As fans chanted and cheered in euphoria, the excitement unfortunately descended into chaos, with a stampede injuring many and claiming lives. Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW! Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh took to social media and said: "Heartbreaking news of a stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and injuries to several cricket fans has cast a dark shadow over the spirit of the game that unites millions across our nation." "My deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate event. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo I stand in solidarity with them during this incredibly difficult time and pray for the speedy recovery of those who have been injured," he said. Former India bowler Irfan Pathan also reacted to the incident with a heartbreak emoji on social media, following the loss of many lives due to the stampede. Legendary spinner Anil Kumble called the incident "tragic." "It's a Sad day for Cricket! My heart goes out to the families of those who lost their lives while celebrating RCB's victory today. Praying for the speedy recovery of those injured. Tragic !!," Kumble wrote. "What happened at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, is beyond tragic. My heart goes out to every affected family. Wishing peace and strength to all," legendary Sachin Tendulkar wrote. Newly-crowned IPL champions RCB were welcomed with a thunderous and emotional reception as passionate fans flooded the streets and gathered in massive numbers at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium to catch a glimpse of their heroes—most notably the ever-iconic Virat Kohli . RCB defeated Punjab Kings by six runs in the IPL final in Ahmedabad on Tuesday to secure their maiden title after 18 years.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Eclipse Season Message for Each Zodiac Sign
(Also known as: the universe's way of saying 'plot twist!' with zero warning and maximum drama) Aries The universe has just handed you a cosmic Molotov cocktail. It's time to burn that old script you've been following. Now, rewrite it completely, as if you're Quentin Tarantino on a caffeine high. This isn't the moment to play it safe at all—this is absolutely the time to break things (and ideally, just your limiting beliefs). Taurus This Eclipse Season is asking for one major thing: significant growth. And while a Taurus typically desires comfort above all else, tough luck, because change is completely non-refundable this time. It's time to let go of any false sense of peace you've been holding onto. Upgrade your emotional playlist, and perhaps even release some old emotional baggage. Gemini Suddenly, it feels like everyone around you is operating at double speed, and usually, a Gemini would be absolutely thriving in this. But the Eclipse is giving you a clear message: slow down, actually sit with your feelings, and stop dodging those unresolved conversations. The plot twist here is that true growth requires genuine depth, not just witty dialogue. Cancer The Moon typically runs your show, and you, Cancer, are probably already shedding a few tears. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Esta nueva alarma con cámara es casi regalada en Banfield (ver precio) Verisure Undo But here's the crucial message: stop trying to "baby-proof" your past. Finding closure isn't always a sweet or comfortable process. This season is going to pull up old wounds as if it's hosting a dramatic reunion episode—just make sure you don't get stuck reliving it. Leo The spotlight might feel like it's suddenly off, and your ego might feel a bit bruised. Eclipse Season is delivering a humbling experience to Leo with the emotional precision of a Greta Gerwig film. But it's also a powerful reminder that real strength isn't found in constant applause—it's found in moments of silence, deep resilience, and the self-control not to text your ex. Virgo Your carefully crafted plan has probably failed. And your backup plan? That too. The Eclipse genuinely doesn't care about your color-coded calendars or meticulous organization. It's here to throw a huge handful of emotional glitter right into your well-ordered spreadsheet. The point isn't perfection right now—it's simply being present . Libra Your usual sense of balance is completely broken, and Eclipse Season has no interest in people-pleasing. If the scales have tipped significantly, now is the time to openly call it out. Your relationships will be tested, rigorously filtered, and potentially even deleted—consider this your emotional spring cleaning. Scorpio This might feel a lot like a betrayal, but what you're experiencing is actually a powerful transformation. Scorpio typically knows the art of endings better than most, but this particular ending might sting differently. The Eclipse is actively cutting ties that have been draining your energy like a vampire with an unlimited data plan. It's time to let them go. Sagittarius The wild child in you is being asked to actually pause for a moment. There are no easy escape routes, and no impulsive trips to be had—just a period of deep reflection. The biggest adventure you'll face now? Confronting the truth that lies beneath all that laughter. Who knew? Capricorn Your definition of success is currently being redefined. The climb itself no longer makes any sense if the mountain you're scaling is entirely made of anxiety and burnout. This eclipse is giving you a direct message: recalibrate your plans, or risk collapsing. Choose wisely, and preferably, ensure you get enough sleep while doing so. Aquarius Your mind might be spinning a mile a minute, but this Eclipse is hitting you right in the heart. You'll encounter unexpected feelings, perhaps reconnect with old friendships, or experience new beginnings—emotions are the main plot twist for you this time. And yes, it's going to be uncomfortable. That, precisely, is the whole point. Pisces It's a battle between your dreams and reality. The fog is finally lifting, whether you, Pisces, like it or not. Your boundaries are starting to become much clearer and louder, and pure fantasy won't be able to cover up what truly needs to be faced. This isn't a bad thing at all—it's the definitive beginning of something much more solid and real. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Magic Johnson isn't happy with Pascal Siakam's MVP accolade, as he believes Tyrese Haliburton was the rightful contender
Magic Johnson isn't happy with Pascal Siakam's MVP accolade as he believes Tyrese Haliburton was the rightful contender (Image Source : Getty Images) Moments after the Pacers closed out the Knicks in Game 6 on May 27, the scene felt like a dream: smiles, embraces, history made. But then came the MVP reveal. A name rang out, yet cameras caught another player frozen, almost expecting it to be his. The mood quietly shifted. Whispers spread fast. Fans took to their screens. Some cheered, others questioned. Even former greats had thoughts. Behind all the celebration, a quiet doubt lingered: was the wrong player crowned the hero? Magic Johnson thinks Tyrese Haliburton was the real star of the series Pascal Siakam was named MVP of the Eastern Conference Final on Monday, May 27, shortly after the Indiana Pacers defeated Game 6 New York Knicks. He received the Larry Bird Trophy. Pascal Siakam performed admirably. Over six games, he averaged 24.8 points, 5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.3 steals. Three of his games saw him score above thirty points. He was steady and strong in every match. The vote, though, was quite near. Official results show 5 votes for Pascal Siakam. Tyrese Haliburton received four. Many arguments appeared from that one-vote difference. NBA great Earvin Magic Johnson is one of those who spoke out. Magic Johnson stated on ESPN during an interview on June 2 that Tyrese Haliburton should have received the prize. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Hot Tip From Tech Millionaire: If You Have £250, Do This SmartlifeTrendsDaily Read More Undo Magic remarked, "You have the NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and, in my opinion, the MVP throughout the Eastern Conference Playoffs is Tyrese Haliburton.' He acknowledged Haliburton's court leadership and playmaking skills. Many supporters agreed. Tyrese Haliburton was on average 21 points, 6 rebounds, 10.5 assists and 2.5 steals per match. With 32 points, 12 rebounds and 15 assists in game 4 on May 25, he had a big outing, and he did not turn over the ball once. Magic Johnson isn't happy with Pascal Siakam's MVP accolade as he believes Tyrese Haliburton was the rightful contender (Image Source: Getty Images) Tyrese Haliburton had a depressed game 5; He scored just 8 points. Some voters could have been impacted by that. Still, his general performance led many others to believe he should have brought home the medal. Tyrese Haliburton supported Pascal Siakam despite the disappointment Tyrese Haliburton was next to his teammates on the court right after the game ended. Cameras caught him watching the MVP announcement. Some viewers believed he appeared shocked, perhaps hoping to hear his own name. Users of social media joked, but Tyrese Haliburton stayed silent on anything negative. The first person to commemorate Pascal Siakam's victory was Haliburton. He clapped for his buddy and joined in the chants for "MVP.' Tyrese Haliburton later remarked about Siakam with great respect in an interview with The Athletic on May 28. "We had a vision when we brought him here.' It's particularly wonderful that he is here. He said, "He is like a big brother to me; I can trust him, talk to him, and lean on him." Tyrese Haliburton will have another shot now. Starting Thursday, June 6, the Indiana Pacers will meet the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals. Perhaps Haliburton's next honor will come soon if he maintains his current performance. Also read: Major American vehicle rental company brings NBA legend Jason Kidd as their newest brand ambassador
