Brendan Schaub faces backlash for insensitive comments ahead of UFC Featherweight clash

Former UFC heavyweight contender Brendan Schaub has drawn criticism for his recent comments about the highly anticipated featherweight

Brendan Schaub(R) with Sean Strickland(L) in a file photo [Image Credit: Instagram@brendanschaub]
By Mohit | Aug 23, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Former UFC heavyweight contender Brendan Schaub has drawn criticism for his recent comments about the highly anticipated featherweight bout between Max Holloway and Chan Sung Jung popularly known as The Korean Zombie. Schaub’s remarks during an episode of his podcast, The Schaub Show, have been deemed insensitive and borderline racist by many prompting backlash from fans and the MMA community.

The main event is set to take place in Singapore and features former world champion Max Holloway facing off against fan-favorite Chan Sung Jung. Going into the fight, The Korean Zombie is considered a significant underdog with odds heavily favoring Holloway at around -850 to +520. Schaub discussed the upcoming bout on his podcast offering his predictions and insights.

Schaub’s controversial remarks came as he shared his thoughts on the fight. “I think Max Holloway is going to pepper his Korean face into North Korea,” Schaub said on the podcast. His comment drew immediate backlash from listeners who criticized him for making an insensitive and racially insensitive statement. Many in the MMA community expressed disappointment and frustration over Schaub’s choice of words.

Brendan Schaub faces backlash for insensitive comments ahead of UFC Featherweight clash

The insensitive nature of Schaub’s comments lies in the reference to The Korean Zombie’s ethnicity. The comment implies a harmful stereotype and plays on cultural differences. It has led to accusations of racism. Schaub’s words sparked outrage among fans and observers who believe that such comments are inappropriate and disrespectful.

Despite the controversy, some fans agreed with Schaub’s prediction that Max Holloway is likely to secure a victory over The Korean Zombie. Holloway is also known as “Blessed” and has won four of his last seven fights with his most recent victory being a decisive win over Arnold Allen in April. After that victory, Holloway calls for a fight with The Korean Zombie as the two have yet to face each other in the octagon.

It’s essential to maintain a level of respect and professionalism. Schaub’s comments crossed that line and many argue that his insensitive language undermines the integrity of the sport and the athletes involved. As a public figure and former fighter, Schaub has a platform that can influence public opinion and should exercise caution in his statements.

The backlash against Schaub’s comments highlights the importance of maintaining respect and sensitivity when discussing fighters’ backgrounds and identities. In the diverse world of MMA, fighters come from various cultures and backgrounds, and promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment is essential for the sport’s growth and reputation.

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