Israel Adesanya says Mohamed Salah makes him feel good every time he does his trademark celebration.
Salah netted Liverpool’s second as his side breezed past Ipswich Town on Saturday to go six points clear at the top of the Premier League.
After thumping in his 100th Premier League goal for the Reds in the 4-1 victory, Salah used an archer’s gesture as he celebrated in front of the home fans.
The Egyptian man has already used the celebration this season, bringing it out at Old Trafford after scoring a goal during Liverpool’s win against Manchester United.
Salah said in his post-match interview that he was inspired by Adesanya, who has now revealed why the celebration continues to make him feel happy.
“It felt good when Mohamed Salah did my celebration,” Adesanya said, speaking to Stake.
“It lets me know I am doing the right things. It lets me know I am representing myself, the game and my people well.
“He is also Egyptian and the weaponry I believe it’s a part of their culture. It’s just cool to see people appreciate my work and the little trinkets I give.
“It also makes room for people to do their own thing and I love it when people express themselves freely.”
Adesanya adopted the celebration for the first time after his famous knockout victory over Alex Pereira at UFC 287 in April 2023.
He made the gesture as if firing arrows at his rival, who was left unconscious on the floor after being knocked out cold by Adesanya in the second round.
The celebration has since been a feature of Salah’s game, with the 32-year-old having had plenty of opportunities to use it having bagged 19 goals in 22 appearances this season.
