In 1279 Adolf's uncle Waleran IV, Duke of Limburg died leaving one daughter, Ermengarde, wife of Reginald I, Count of Guelders.
Adolf tried unsuccessfully to assert his claim and in 1283 he sold his right to Duke John I of Brabant.
The counter-claims of Duke John and Reginald I ultimately led to the Battle of Worringen in 1288 in which Adolf supported the victorious Brabant.
Archbishop Siegfried was captured and imprisoned by Adolf in Schloss Burg for 13 months.
Through trickery, Archbishop Siegfried was able to capture Adolf in 1292 and held him in prison until he died on 28 September 1296.