UFC champion Israel Adesanya has made history ahead of his middleweight title defense next weekend.
The undefeated Nigerian has signed a multiyear deal with Puma, the company announced on Thursday.
Also known as Style Bender, Adesanya will star as face of Puma’s Oceania division but sources told ESPN he will also be a part of its global marketing plans.
He becomes the first MMA fighter to be sponsored by the German multinational brand.
Considering the UFC’s uniform sponsorship deal with Reebok currently, and with Venum starting in April 2021, Adesanya can’t wear Puma gear in the cage for his fights.
Adesanya takes on Paulo Costa in the main event of UFC 253 on September 26.
