Kiwi UFC title contender Kai Kara-France points out the NRL stars who could make it to the octagon – and how Israel Adesanya taught him an important lesson about fighting
- UFC star will be inspired by Israel Adesanya
- Kara-France will take on the undefeated Amir Albazi this weekend
- Kiwi reveals Warriors players who could make it in MMA
UFC star Kai Kara-France draws inspiration and energy from teammate Israel Adesanya in his fight this weekend – after coaching the New Zealand Warriors NRL squad in the fine art of beating people up.
Kara-France heads UFC Vegas 74 this weekend against rising contender Amir Albazi in the Kiwis’ first outing since his title fight loss to Brandon Moreno.
The powerful flyweight says it’s hard not to be inspired by his City Kickboxing teammate Adesanya, who recently recaptured the middleweight crown from bitter rival Alex Pereira.
Kara-France, who is also the wrestling coach for the New Zealand Warriors NRL side, recently took Adesanya to a training session with the club.
“He helped me coach,” explains Kara-France.
“He talked to everyone about his losses and told how he was beaten three times by a man and then came back and beat him in the fourth time – he never lost hope.
Kai Kara-France takes inspiration from teammate Israel Adesanya in his upcoming match
Kara-France, who is also the wrestling coach for the New Zealand Warriors NRL side, recently took Adesanya to a training session with the club (pictured)
“Supporting yourself and believing in yourself is so important. It is absolutely inspiring and radiates to you. I use that energy for my camp.’
Kara-France will look to channel Adesanya’s confidence against the undefeated Albazi, who is seen by many as a future title contender.
‘What makes him [Albazi] the most dangerous thing is that he is self-confident,” says Kara-France.
“I have to empty that immediately when we get in there.
“I’ll remind him that if he wants to make the tape, he has to get the best – and I’m looking forward to the challenge.
“I am prepared for five rounds, but if I find the target early, I will end it. It’s muscle memory.’
The fight with Albazi will be his eleventh trip to the Octagon, and it’s fair to say he’s looked more comfortable each time.
He has won four of his last five, and his life outside the sport also brings him satisfaction.
Kara-France (pictured with partner Chardae and their son Cobi) will headline UFC Vegas 74 this weekend against rising contender Amir Albazi
Kara-France enjoys coaching the Warriors and says more than a few could make it in MMA
Kara-France hopes to help the Warriors with his knowledge of wrestling and MMA, especially after their disappointing 2022 season.
“I’m there most weeks adding value where I can,” Kara-France said.
“It’s just amazing to be in that space and see progress. Seeing it on the field and building from week to week.
“There’s a life after fighting and who knows – I could see my career in that space.”
When asked if any of the Warriors could succeed in MMA, Kara-France had no doubts.
“If you look at Alex Volkanovski, that’s where he started – playing footy,” he said.
“There are a few Warriors who can transition easily. Just crazy athletes who could do anything. Guys like Shaun Johnson and Addin Fonua-Blake. There are a few.’