Puma has called on its Australasian ambassador, UFC Middleweight champion Israel ‘The Last Stylebender’ Adesanya, to front the campaign for the reissued Suede shoe.
Since debut in 1968, the sneaker has cemented itself as a pop-culture piece, appearing on the feet of Tommie Smith during his protest on the victory stand during the 1968 Olympic games, to Walt 'Clyde' Frazier on the basketball courts in the 70s, to b-boy crews in NYC in the 80s.
Now, Adesanya's story can be added to the collection of moments the shoe has featured in.
"The Suede is such an iconic shoe and has been a style staple for over 50 years," Adesanya said.
"Worn by the icons of every generation, I’m honoured to be a part of its story.
"It’s deep rooted in culture and society and above all has stayed classic - the Suede is for all time," he said.
To celebrate the relaunch of the classic style, Puma has planned a series of new releases, collaborations and colourways to launch throughout the year.
The Suede is available now on the Puma Australia website and across the brand's 19 Australian stores.
The shoe is available in sizes for kids, youth and adults and retails for between $50-$130.