Israel Adesanya and teammates at City Kickboxing were visibly shaken after the death of Fau Vake
Fau Vake, a promising and upcoming MMA fighter was killed last month in Auckland due to a coward punch from 4 unknown men in Auckland.
The 25-year old was attacked on the 17th of May, and was left in a coma for several days, before he passed away.
His teammates at City Kickboxing headed by Eugene Bareman (Israel Adesanya, Dan Hooker and others) were deeply saddened Vake’s tragic death.
Vake left behind a loving wife and daughter.
Elsewhere, following his win against Marvin Vettori at UFC 263, Adesanya paid tribute to the late Fau Vake. He dedicated his victory to the deceased fighter, as he laid his belt on the ground and paid his respects.
An emotional Adesanya told Joe Rogan at the post-fight interview:
“One of our boys, who was on his way up to the UFC was murdered. Let’s not miss words. He got murdered by some thugs, who are still walking around free. But I just wanted to say Fau Vake, Fau Vake, Fau Vake [voice cracking], I love you man. Willy, John, James, all the Vake fam…All love…You know what we do…This fight I dedicate to you Fau.”
Adesanya then went on to reveal how Vake dominated him (Izzy) in their last sparring session together.
Izzy told Rogan:
“Even in his last sparring with me. He whooped my a**. Whooped my a**. I have to give you credit Fau, trust me. I’m never gonna get that one back, but I’m glad you whooped my a** during your last sparring.”
Saying so, Adesanya went on to call out his rival Robert Whittaker for a rematch, this time in his own backyard, Auckland.
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