He calls himself “The Last Stylebender,” and Israel Adesanya has certainly bent his way to the top of the MMA world. With an undefeated middleweight record in the UFC and a captivating fight style, Adesanya has become a global phenomenon, attracting the attention of not just fight fans but major brands as well.
One such brand is Stake.com, a crypto-based casino and sportsbook that secured a multi-year partnership with Adesanya in early 2021, marking a significant move in both the MMA and online gambling spheres.
Adesanya’s rise to fame was meteoric. After a flawless kickboxing career, he transitioned to MMA in 2016, quickly racking up wins and captivating audiences with his precise striking, fluid movement, and confident persona. By 2019, he had conquered the UFC middleweight division, becoming the undisputed champion and amassing a legion of dedicated fans. This success naturally caught the eye of brands eager to associate themselves with the rising star.
Stake.com, founded in 2017, recognized Adesanya’s potential early on. As a crypto-focused platform, Stake aimed to tap into the growing MMA audience, particularly younger demographics familiar with digital currencies. Partnering with a champion like Adesanya, known for his innovative fighting style and tech-savvy persona, proved a strategic move.
The official partnership announcement in January 2021 marked a first for both parties. It was the first-ever crypto sponsorship in MMA history, solidifying Stake.com’s position as a pioneer in the emerging crypto-gambling market.
There Stake is recognized for its gamified sports betting platform, its engaging promotions and community plus the availability of lots of casino game providers including titles from the game portfolio of NetEnt, BGaming and Pragmatic Play. For Adesanya, it represented a lucrative endorsement deal and an opportunity to connect with fans who shared his interest in digital assets.
Since then, the partnership has flourished. Adesanya remains a prominent brand ambassador for Stake.com, appearing in various promotional campaigns and activities. He has featured in promotional videos, participated in exclusive meet-and-greets with fans, and even offered signed merchandise giveaways through the platform.
Notably, Stake.com sponsored Adesanya’s highly anticipated fight against Alex Pereira at UFC 281 in November 2023, further amplifying their association.
Beyond direct promotions, the partnership has fostered a deeper connection with fans. Adesanya frequently interacts with the Stake.com community on social media, offering insights and engaging in playful banter. This genuine engagement adds authenticity to the collaboration and strengthens the bond with his audience.
However, the partnership isn’t without its critics. Some raise concerns about the potential influence of gambling on young fans, while others question the suitability of cryptocurrency in such sponsorships. Despite these concerns, the partnership continues to thrive, navigating the evolving landscape of MMA and online gambling with a focus on responsible promotion and fan engagement.
As Adesanya continues his reign in the UFC and Stake.com expands its reach, the future of their partnership remains bright. It serves as a testament to the growing influence of MMA athletes and the innovative strategies employed by crypto-based platforms like Stake.com.
While the landscape may evolve, Adesanya’s “Last Stylebender” persona and Stake.com’s cutting-edge approach likely ensure this partnership maintains its relevance and impact in the years to come.
