When James Toney signed with the UFC, many long-time fans of the organization, for one reason or another, let out a collective groan.
And now that training footage of Toney has surfaced online branded with the M-1 Global logo, many are wondering what the connection is between Toney and the organization that is best known for not agreeing to a deal with the UFC that would have seen Fedor Emelianenko fight inside the Octagon.
Apparently, though, there isn't much of a connection.
Evgeni Kogan, M-1 Global's director of operations, told MMA Fighting that Toney "is definitely not affiliated with us," while Steven Bash, M-1 USA VP of Legal Affairs, further explained that their relationship is not a business one.
"Toney's trainer is the house trainer at the M-1 Global affiliated gym in L.A. His strength and conditioning coach is the owner of the gym and a good friend of mine," Bash wrote via e-mail.
"There is no direct affiliation between M-1 Global the company and Toney."
Toney is set to make his UFC debut against Randy Couture at UFC 118 on August 28 in Boston. MMA Fighting's Mike Chiappetta has a look at his training camp here.
Watch below as he talks about fighting Couture and then boxing champion David Haye shortly thereafter.
Get the week's must see MMA stories, hand-picked for your inbox.
Show more info?
We’ve developed a unique newsletter that delivers the top MMA stories of the week, that you don't want to miss, delivered directly to your email inbox. The MMA Main Event newsletter is curated by an SB Nation MMA editor who follows sports the way you do: as a fan.
You can unsubscribe at anytime, and we'll never use your address for evil. Not interested? Make this bar go away forever. You can always sign up later.
When James Toney signed with the UFC, many long-time fans of the organization, for one reason or another, let out a collective groan. 
0 comments
