UFC fighter Mounir Laszez caused controversy after he thanked Daniel Kinahan, an alleged Irish mob boss, after his victory over Ange Loosa.
"The Sniper", the winner of Saturday's UFC Fight Night's first bout, was ruled out. But it was his comments afterward that made headlines.
UFC star Mounir Laszez thanked Daniel Kinahan, an alleged drug baron, post-fight
Recently, the US government announced that Kinahan's father Christy and his brother Christy Jnr Schaefer were subject to a series of sanctions.
These included a $5million bounty on the alleged drug lord. He has always denied wrongdoing and this has led to many fighters distancing themselves.
Bob Arum, Top Rank boss and long-time Tyson Fury promoter, said he would no more work with Kinahan.
The 90-year old also disclosed that the alleged gangster had made millions from four Fury fights in 2019-2021 before sanctions were imposed.
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Lazzez chose to thank Kinahan instead, and later claimed that he didn't know anything about the sanctions imposed on him.
Lazzez stated on the microphone following his win: "I would like to thank my coaches, my brother Daniel Kinahan. Without him, I wouldn't be the man I am today or my career at this stage." Thanks a lot."
Lazzez responded to a question about his comments at the post-fight press conference. According to MMA Junkie: "That man, that man, is a friend, and adviser." He was the one who helped me get up when I was down.
He is a man of his word. He taught me the value of real friends and family.
Get a PS10 Bonus with 100s of Games to Play and No Deposit Required"It's someone that I can't thank enough for where and who I'm today... That's why he said it, all the credit and shout-out to him."
Lazzez answered a question about Kinahan's sanctioning by the US government: "No, that is not what I know."
"I believe I'm here for people to laugh at me. I give credit to anyone who deserves it. This is not something I am involved with. It's not something I know of, but I'll investigate.
"It's simple for me. It's a friend outside of the gym. He was a great mentor and helped me all through my career.
Then, he was told about the Dublin police statement earlier this week: "For an message, any combat sports person who continues to collaborate with him, they are involved in a criminal organization."
Lazzez responded: "I don’t follow that kind of news. I don't focus on the news, I concentrate on my family. I entertain and focus on the people that matter most.
UFC president Dana White declined comment to Lazzez's comments.
