Kentucky rivalry just got a jolt of energy — and it’s thanks to Louisville head coach Pat Kelsey finally addressing the story that’s been buzzing around message boards and social media for weeks.
The rumor? A heated exchange between Kelsey and Kentucky head coach Mark Pope at the very start of the recruiting period — with some reports suggesting things nearly turned physical. Others said it was just a tense war of words.
Now we’re hearing from Kelsey himself.
Speaking at the Salute to the Game luncheon before the annual St. X–Trinity football showdown, Kelsey addressed the rumors head-on — with a bit of humor.
“I had this dream the other night that I was at a UFC event,” Kelsey said with a grin. “And when I looked up at the screen, the main event was Kelsey vs. Pope.”
But Kelsey didn’t stop there. He used the joke to make it clear where he stands on the rivalry.
“Mark is one of the finest human beings in coaching,” Kelsey said. “A world-class father, a world-class husband — and yes, I still want to tear his face off when we play them in November.”
As for the alleged confrontation outside Tay Kinney’s apartment? We may never know exactly what happened, but one thing is obvious — these two coaches are fierce competitors, and neither is backing down when it comes to the rivalry or the recruiting trail.
If nothing else, Kelsey just made the Kentucky–Louisville matchup in November must-watch television.
And honestly, a UFC main event between Pope and Kelsey? Go ahead and name the venue — it’d sell out in minutes.
