Navajo Stirling says he understands and supports Israel Adesanya's decision to part ways with coach Eugene Bareman and the City Kickboxing camp, and stressed the gym remains fully capable of preparing fighters for top‑level bouts. Stirling made the remarks during media day ahead of his co‑main event appearance at UFC Belgrade, where he faces Jan Blachowicz.
Support for a team member who helped pave the way
Adesanya's announcement that he was leaving the long‑standing relationship with Bareman and City Kickboxing was described at the time as "a long time coming". The move has prompted widespread attention given Adesanya's status as a former UFC middleweight champion and a leading figure from the Australasian MMA scene.
Stirling, who has trained at City Kickboxing alongside Adesanya, said the split did not come as a surprise to him and that he had no ill will towards his former training partner.
"I was happy for him," Stirling said. "Sometimes you do need a breath of fresh air. A new opportunity. New surroundings. I know what that does for a fighter. Everyone at the gym just wishes him nothing but the best."
He added that Adesanya had been instrumental in opening doors for fighters from New Zealand and Australia, and that many within the gym still look up to him.
City Kickboxing's depth and preparation
Despite the departure of a marquee name, Stirling insisted City Kickboxing "didn't skip a beat" and that the team remained deep enough to provide the support and preparation needed for his fight with Blachowicz. He confirmed there has been a robust group of training partners and coaches helping him get ready, and noted the involvement of other high‑profile athletes.
Among those assisting Stirling's preparations is former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker, who has been part of training sessions ahead of the Belgrade card.
- Event: UFC Belgrade (co‑main event)
- Stirling's opponent: Jan Blachowicz
- Notable training support: Robert Whittaker and members of City Kickboxing
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Fighter | Navajo Stirling |
| Opponent | Jan Blachowicz |
| Gym | City Kickboxing |
Stirling was careful to emphasise that while Adesanya had been a pillar at the gym for many years, the coaching structure and roster of fighters ensured continuity. "He’s paved the way for so many of us back home," Stirling said of Adesanya, reflecting on the wider impact the champion has had beyond their own gym.
Adesanya has yet to reveal his next training base or when he will return to competition, and Stirling declined to speculate on those plans. His focus, he said, remains fixed on his own preparation and performance in Belgrade.
The coming weeks will show whether the separation alters relationships within the New Zealand MMA community or how training arrangements evolve, but for now Stirling and his camp are proceeding with the business of fight week.
