Brendan Allen has made headlines by declining to train with fellow UFC fighter Reinier de Ridder. The clash between these two middleweights is set to unfold in the main event at UFC Vancouver this Saturday. Allen’s refusal stems from deeper issues involving respect and camaraderie among training partners.
Background on the Situation
When de Ridder arrived at Kill Cliff FC in Florida, he approached Allen about collaborating in training. Allen, however, rejected the proposal. He clarified that his discontent was not with de Ridder, but with how the coaching staff handled the situation. According to Allen, he received respect from other fighters regarding potential training sessions, which did not happen in de Ridder’s case.
“I was asked if I was okay with middleweights training in the gym,” Allen stated in an interview. He recalled his willingness to welcome fighters like Nassourdine Imavov, even before a scheduled match. However, he felt slighted when de Ridder was allowed to join without similar courtesy.
Frustrations with Kill Cliff FC
Allen’s displeasure is primarily aimed at the coaching team for the lack of communication about de Ridder’s training. He expressed disappointment, stating, “It left a sour taste in my mouth.” Despite experiencing conflicts within the gym, Allen stresses that his views should not be taken personally against de Ridder. He firmly maintains that he is not looking for friendships in the division.
- Allen believes in competing fiercely but values respect among peers.
- He emphasized maintaining loyalty with existing friends in his weight class.
- When discussing de Ridder’s training presence, he stated he did not wish to engage with him as a friend or a training partner.
A Shift in Focus
After a series of frustrations, Allen sought new training opportunities, resulting in his transition to a gym in Chicago. He began collaborating with former UFC champion Belal Muhammad and his team. This move offered him a fresh start, fostering a more suitable environment.
Allen reflected on his loyalty to friends in the sport, mentioning his relationships with fighters like Aung La N Sang. His past experiences have shaped him, especially after his friends faced de Ridder in the octagon. While there is no outright animosity, Allen’s attitude towards de Ridder remains professional yet distant.
Fight Expectations
As he prepares to step into the octagon, Allen expresses confidence about the upcoming fight. He views this as an opportunity to showcase his skills against de Ridder. “He’s nothing impressive,” he claims, adding that he doesn’t see any special qualities in de Ridder’s fighting style.
In summary, Brendan Allen’s decision to decline training with Reinier de Ridder is rooted in a quest for respect and clarity within his training environment. As they prepare to face each other at UFC Vancouver, all eyes will be on how these dynamics play out in the cage.
