The two fighters’ careers are inextricably linked after their unforgettable bout at UFC 239 that saw Masvidal record the fastest knockout in UFC history, connecting with a flying knee that finished Askren just five seconds into the encounter. That highlight was the culmination of a heated feud that has carried on even with Askren having retired from MMA competition and Masvidal having moved on to other rivalries.
Still, Masvidal hasn’t hesitated to poke fun at “Funky,” most recently teaming up with YouTube star Jake Paul to antagonize Askren ahead of Paul’s boxing match with Askren on April 17. Masvidal called in during a Triller press conference this past Friday to give a less-than-fond greeting to Askren and on Sunday he took to Twitter to dismiss the notion that Askren is representing the sport of MMA in his matchup with Paul.
That was the last straw for Askren, who offered his own fiery retort via Twitter:
I’ve refrained for 2 years, but let’s be real Jorge. You landed the luckiest knee of your life and I made you famous. You’re welcome. You got 50-43’d by Usman and will likely again next month. Beat it loser. https://twitter.com/gamebredfighter/status/1376249960476389377
— Funky (@Benaskren) March 29, 2021
“I’ve refrained for two years, but let’s be real, Jorge,” Askren wrote. “You landed the luckiest knee of your life and I made you famous. You’re welcome. You got 50-43’d by Usman and will likely again next month. Beat it loser.”— Funky (@Benaskren) March 29, 2021
Though it’s unlikely that Askren and Masvidal will ever fight again, both men have a chance to make a statement next month. Askren makes his pro boxing debut against Paul on April 17 in a bout that is expected to draw massive mainstream interest, while Masvidal looks to avenge a decision loss to welterweight champion Kamaru Usman when they rematch at UFC 261 on April 24 in Jacksonville, Fla.
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