Israel Adensanya has been welcomed back to New Zealand with a hearty celebratory haka on the streets of Tāmaki Makaurau as he returns with the UFC Middleweight Championship belt.
In a clip posted to Instagram by filmmaker @kwasnikpictures over the weekend, Izzy was greeted by a large group of supporters who performed the haka on the viaduct in Tāmaki Makaurau.
The middleweight champion is seen getting out of his vehicle and walking towards the group of men and young boys proudly supporting the UFC star.
“Was epic to capture some @stylebender moments from his arrival back in NZ,” the caption read.
Israel looked stoked to be home as he beamed ear to ear holding up his two championship belts with the support of his Kiwi fans.
However, many were shocked that the star hasn’t received the complete recognition that he deserves.
Upset fans believe the ‘Style Bender’ should be celebrated more by the NZ sporting community.
“Damn, that’s dope but is that all he gets for re-gaining the belt? If it was any other country they give that man a parade,” wrote one confused fan.
Another suggested that Izzy “needs a victory parade in Welly and CHCH now,” and I can’t help but agree.
However, many took the opportunity to celebrate the champ in the comments with one Instagram commenter writing: “Looks like a night to remember ❤️🔥🙌”
“A whole bunch of emotions,” wrote another.
A third echoed the love writing: “Amazing 🤩 such an inspirational champion.”
In case you missed it, on April 8, Izzy had an incredible comeback in a rematch fight against Alex Pereira after losing to him back in 2017.
It’s well safe to say that we are beyond stoked for the star and will celebrate him while he is home in Aotearoa.
