The world of combat sports and social media collided in an unexpected way as tech billionaire Elon Musk sought training assistance
The world of combat sports and social media collided in an unexpected way as tech billionaire Elon Musk sought training assistance from UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov for his highly-anticipated fight against fellow mogul Mark Zuckerberg. However, it appears that Musk’s request has been met with a polite decline from ‘The Eagle’ himself.
According to reports from Russian news outlet TASS, a representative of Khabib Nurmagomedov confirmed that the former UFC lightweight champion has respectfully declined Elon Musk’s offer to help him prepare for the bout against Mark Zuckerberg. While the reasons for Nurmagomedov’s refusal were not explicitly detailed. It was suggested that there may be philosophical differences between the two individuals when it comes to matters such as “life, alcohol, and drugs.”
The statement revealed, “Elon Musk wanted Khabib Nurmagomedov to help him prepare for the fight against Zuckerberg. However, Khabib declined this proposal, and we do not know the reasons [for his refusal].“
Furthermore, it was indicated that Khabib Nurmagomedov prefers to train only individuals whom he knows personally and that training Musk could potentially affect his image given their differing viewpoints. The representative added, “Khabib refused for reasons of principle. He ended his coaching and sports career, nothing can change that. Musk’s status also does not play any role. Although Khabib regularly receives offers both to be a coach and to return to sports.“
Despite the setback, Elon Musk has not been left without training assistance. Former two-division world champion Georges St-Pierre, eagerly stepped up to help prepare Musk for the billionaire bout. The two have been seen training together with St-Pierre expressing admiration for Musk.
Mark Zuckerberg has enlisted significant MMA talent to aid in his preparations. UFC champions Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski, as well as five-time IBJJF world champion Mikey Musumeci. They are among the names supporting Zuckerberg as he gets ready for the contest.
While no official date or location has been disclosed for the showdown between Musk and Zuckerberg, Elon Musk has confirmed that the fight will be streamed live on his platform, X (formerly Twitter), with all proceeds from the event going to charity.
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