While fans absolutely adore Lionel Messi, there are some who don’t particularly privy the Argentine. With Messi’s current form in Miami, it seems La Pulga has earned the respect of one of his old naysayers. Messi was slammed by a former UFC star before his move to Miami, as he labeled Leo to be a ‘bum.’ It seems, however, that Messi’s magic has worked on the retired mixed martial artist.

Following his prior comments, the former UFC superstar has taken a U-turn on his statement. While many fans have been spellbound by the $600 million rich Argentine, the retired fighter isn’t impressed with what Messi does on the pitch, rather, something he does after games.

Chael Sonnen admits having respect for Inter Miami talisman

Chael Sonnen is an icon in the MMA-verse. Despite not winning a title throughout his career, the fighter had an impressive record, winning 31 out of his 49 fights. In an old tweet from nine months ago, Chael Sonnen had cracked a joke on Wayne Rooney and Lionel Messi.

Replying to one of Rooney’s tweets where he praised Messi, Sonnen called both soccer stars a bum. However, it seems like the fighter has had a change of mind after watching Messi in action. In a podcast with Ariel Helwani, the UFC legend admitted having respect for the Inter Miami talisman.

“I do like this Messi character though. He met his wife when he was seven years old, and he’s never touched another girl and won’t even do pictures with them. I like that guy. That’s a pretty cool story.”

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It seems like Lionel Messi’s demeanor off the field has impressed the former UFC star. Players have flocked to the Argentine superstar eager to get a photo or exchange jerseys with the World Cup winner.

While there were a lot of speculations about how Lionel Messi would perform in the United States, the Argentine has put all talks to bed following his arrival.

Lionel Messi takes over MLS following his arrival in the United States

The Argentine has been on fire for Inter Miami, helping them win the Leagues Cup title. Messi, in less than two months, has already scored in the double-digits, with opponents left gawking as the Argentine delivers, match after match.

Messi mania is not just limited to fans, as players too have been eager to meet the icon. The 7x Ballon d’Or winner has often been swarmed by opposition players who are eager to get a photograph with the superstar. Leo will be hoping to do the unthinkable this season and help Miami make it to the season qualifiers.

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Do you think Lionel Messi can achieve the treble in his first season with Inter Miami? Let us know in the comments below.