Puma Oceania has tapped leading New Zealand UFC athlete Israel Adesanya as its newest ambassador for the Australasia region.
Adesanya – known as the The Last Stylebender in the UFC – is the middleweight world champion and has an undefeated record of 19 wins and no losses.
He confirmed the partnership with the sportswear brand via a video of him being welcomed to the Puma team, which has clocked up 346,458 views in just three days.
Puma Oceania GM Pancho Gutstein said that Adesanya's personality fit perfectly with the Puma brand.
"We’re ecstatic to be welcoming one of New Zealand’s most acclaimed athletes to the Puma family.
"Not only is Israel a fearless and incredibly talented athlete, but his passion for dancing, fashion, anime and his memorable personality makes him a standout individual to represent the brand," he said.
Speaking on the partnership, Adesanya said that he was drawn to the brand due to its focus on individuality.
"I only work with companies that align with my values and goals and Puma is an awesome fit.
"I express myself when I fight, when I dance and through my style and I’ve always loved rocking Puma.
"I never conform to society’s expectations of who I should be - individualism is key.
"I love that Puma is all about individuality, daring to stand out, fearlessness and pushing the limits.
"Exactly my kind of brand and I’m hyped to see the partnership unfold," he said.
Adesanya is set to compete in a headline fight against Paulo Costa in Abu Dhabi on September 26.