Javier Mendez, the American Kickboxing Academy head coach, has responded to some insane rumors involving Tony Ferguson and Khabib Nurmagomedov.
During their primes, Ferguson and Khabib often traded barbs through the media and during press events. Nothing got physical between the two and despite being booked multiple times, the fight never materialized.
Fast forward to 2024 and Nurmagomedov is a retired UFC Hall of Famer, while "El Cucuy's" best days inside the Octagon are long gone. Ferguson's struggles down the stretch of his pro MMA career have sparked rumors claiming he has traveled to Dagestan to train with Khabib.
During an episode of the "Javier Mendez Podcast," Khabib's coach was asked about the rumors and he was quite puzzled.
"No," Mendez said with a confused look on his face.
When co-host Len said the rumors were indeed floating out there, Javier Mendez explained why it's unlikely to be true.
"Who? Ah, come on," Mendez said. "Knowing Khabib, Khabib would probably tell him, 'Brother, you're too old, you know? Why you do this to yourself?' But I could be wrong, I could be. I don't know, but why wouldn't Khabib contact me and let me know? Khabib's coming here tomorrow 'cause he's getting an award from the Vice President of UAE. So, the king of ⎯ not the king but the ruler of Dubai is giving Khabib an award on the 10th. So, he'll be here with Umar and all those guys so I'll know, but I don't know. If it is, wow. If it is true Tony would benefit for sure."
Belal Muhammad has been one notable fighter who has traveled to Dagestan to train and continues to do so. A key difference with Belal and Ferguson, however, is Muhammad finds himself in the prime of his career and on the verge of a UFC Welterweight Championship opportunity.
If you use any quotes from this article, please leave an H/T to MMAKnockout.com for the transcription.
More must-reads: