Reebok have not exactly covered themselves in glory ahead of UFC Dublin on Saturday.
UFC's main sponsor released a promotional t-shirt for the event which stupidly had the North cut out leaving an odd looking severed Island left to complete the shirt.
The clothing prompted outrage from Irish fans who blasted the UFC and Reebok for being ignorant over the history of the Island.
Just as things couldn't get any worse for Reebok, Conor McGregor's coach at Straight Blast Gym has also stuck the knife in on Reebok.
The significance of this is huge as only recently was a major sponsorship deal announced between Reebok and Straight Blast Gym.
Proud to announce a partnership between @Reebok and @SBG_Ireland #CombatTraining #CentreofExcellence
— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) October 19, 2015
We’re excited to announce our partnership with the legendary @SBG_Ireland, home of King Conor himself. #UFCDublin pic.twitter.com/OIunOacv84 — Reebok UK (@ReebokUK) October 20, 2015
John Kavanagh has since taken to twitter to show where his allegiance lies, and it doesn't make good reading for Reebok.
only seeing this now. its about the dumbest idea i've ever seen. working on it. pic.twitter.com/3FiCA1gj8y
— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) October 21, 2015
An incredibly insensitive stupid divisive idea. Its removed by the end of the day or SBG is gone. I expect a sincere apology to Irish fans. — Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) October 21, 2015
The t-shirt has since been removed from Reebok.ie.
John Kavanagh later tweeted out a statement outlining his position regarding the situation.
No need for any more papers to call. This is my final comment on the situation. Time to get focused on #UFCDublin ? pic.twitter.com/FWjmcSUFdO
— Coach Kavanagh (@John_Kavanagh) October 21, 2015
