Israeli UFC Fighter Natan Levy Faces Antisemitism but Stands Strong Ahead of Homecoming Fight
Natan Levy, the second Israeli ever to compete in the UFC, has endured a challenging journey marked by grueling training in Japan, night shifts as a security guard, and multiple canceled debut fights. Now 34 and based in Las Vegas, Levy reveals how antisemitism has increasingly threatened his career, with sponsors withdrawing support and hostile crowds shouting "child killer" at him during international bouts. He also recounts verbal attacks against his wife and other fighters' spouses, highlighting a disturbing rise in antisemitic incidents in the U.S.
Levy explains that simply being Israeli has made him a political target, with some organizations refusing to let him compete under the Israeli flag and sponsors distancing themselves due to his nationality. He contrasts this with fighters who carry Palestinian flags without similar backlash. Despite these obstacles, Levy remains determined to represent Israel proudly and encourages Jews in the U.S. and Israel to learn self-defense and show strength.
His upcoming fight on July 27 at the Menora Mivtachim Arena in Tel Aviv, part of the Gordon Fight Night event, will mark a rare opportunity to compete before a home crowd. Levy will face American former UFC fighter Lando Vannata in a kickboxing match. He reflects on his long path to the UFC, including years of intense training, financial hardship, and nine canceled fights before finally debuting to a crowd of 18,000.
Levy's story underscores the intersection of sports and politics as he fights not only opponents in the ring but also prejudice outside it. He stresses that while physical confrontations in the sport are expected, the verbal and political attacks he faces are far more painful. His message is clear: "We are strong and proud and will not hide."
