Borussia Dortmund forward Karim Adeyemi has recently been the subject of attention following the emergence of a social media video showing him participating in mixed martial arts training. The video, circulating on Instagram, depicts the 23-year-traditional engaging in combat drills with UFC fighter Islam Dulatov and fighter Mohamed Lockee, well outside of the typical training grounds for the Bundesliga club.
Adeyemi, who has frequently featured as a substitute in recent matches, has not been in Borussia Dortmund’s starting lineup for seven of their last ten competitive games. His last start was in a 3-2 victory against 1. FC Heidenheim approximately three weeks ago, according to reports.
The video shows Adeyemi working with Dulatov and Lockee, engaging in intense grappling techniques, including a sequence where he successfully applies a hold on his training partner. Even as the integration of combat sports elements into athletic training is becoming increasingly common among professional athletes – focusing on strength, explosiveness and stability – Adeyemi’s training occurred during his personal time.
Sources indicate that Borussia Dortmund management were unaware of Adeyemi’s MMA training. This follows another recent social media appearance where Adeyemi featured in a music video released by his wife, Loredana, alongside rapper Haaland936. In that video, Adeyemi was seen behind a fence and barbed wire, wearing sunglasses. The appearance sparked discussion, particularly given his current performance level on the field, which has fallen short of expectations.
Adeyemi’s Instagram profile, @karim_adeyemi, shows he follows accounts including Borussia Dortmund and fellow players Elias Nerlich and Benjamin Šeško. A post from November 29, 2025, shows him with Borussia Dortmund teammates. Another post from November 22, 2025, tags Balkan fans of Borussia Dortmund.
