Chechen dictator Ramzan Kadyrov denies conflict with Khabib: ‘We have no problems’

Kadyrov instead blamed the media for supposedly over-exaggerating the story.

Ramzan Kadyrov has downplayed the ongoing conflict with Khabib Nurmagomedov, claiming instead that the media is responsible for fabricating the story.

Speaking on Instagram live Tuesday, the Chechen dictator insisted that he “can’t say anything bad” about Nurmagomedov and that the former UFC champion’s cousins are members of his Akhmat MMA fight club.

“We have no problems,” Kadyrov said. “If I had not spoken about Khabib, I have a feeling that many media outlets and bloggers have run out of news and they definitely needed to hear something catchy from me. I can’t say anything bad about him.”

The recent controversy took place when Kadyrov referred to Khabib as a “UFC project” by during an Instagram live chat last month, which led many to question the state of their previously cordial relationship. The controversial leader of the Chechen Republic (also known as Chechnya) went on to diminish Nurmagomedov’s achievements in the UFC before claiming that Khamzat Chimaev, himself a Chechen native, is the superior fighter.

Kadyrov concluded his rant by offering to pay Nurmaogmedov “any fee [he desires]” to fight in his Akhmat MMA promotion, adding that he is “ready to give any amount of money to see if he defeats anyone in Akhmat.” This prompted Chimaev to claim that he can “smash” Nurmagomedov.

Despite Kadyrov’s documented statements concerning Khabib, the despotic ruler spoke positively about Khabib during his most recent Instagram live chat.

“Khabib achieved his goals and left the sport,” Kadyrov said. “Now he helps young fighters. He has his own league and he is engaged in business.”