Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper coach Ilyes Mzoughi has firmly denied allegations regarding an explicit video that has cost him his job at Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca, where he was sacked just weeks after reuniting with Nasreddine Nabi.
The Tunisian-Frenchman was hired by Raja Casablanca a fortnight ago, but he has already been shown the exit door. As reported by FARPost, this follows an alleged explicit video which angered the Moroccan giants.
Nasreddine Nabi had invited the goalkeeper coach to help him with his new project at the former African champions. Nabi succeeded Fadlu Davids at Raja Casablanca, while Mzoughi was released by Chiefs whose goalkeeping department had improved under him.
With the two having been reunited, Mzoughi has, however, now lost his job, but he has come out to deny the allegations.
Mzoughi says extortionists demanded US$20,000 [R325,000] from him while threatening to release a video which he claims was artificial intelligence-generated.
ILYES MZOUGHI CLAIMS EXTORTION ATTEMPTS AND SAYS VIDEO IS AI-GENERATED
“Four years ago, I was the target of an extortion attempt. Individuals threatened to publish what I maintain is a fabricated video created using Artificial Intelligence [Al] and demanded approximately USD20,000 in exchange for not releasing it,” Mzoughi said in a statement released on Sunday.
“I refused to give in to this blackmail or any form of intimidation. Yesterday [Saturday], four years later, that video, which I maintain is fabricated using Artificial Intelligence [AI] – was published in an attempt to damage my reputation, tarnish my image, and harm my professional career. I categorically reject all false allegations associated with this video.”
EX-KAIZER CHIEFS COACH ILYES MZOUGHI EXPLORING HIS LEGAL OPTIONS
To clear his name, Mzoughi intends to pursue the legal route against the individuals he says are out to tarnish his image.
“I have already initiated legal proceedings and will pursue legal action against everyone involved in attempting to extort me, as well as anyone who published, republished, promoted, or knowingly contributed to spreading this content,” Mzoughi went on.
“I will not give up my rights and will continue to pursue this case until the truth is fully established and justice is served, and I respectfully ask everyone not to spread rumours or share unverified content, and to respect the truth and the legal process.
He added, “I sincerely thank everyone who has stood by me and supported me during this difficult time. I pray that the truth will prevail and that justice will be done.”
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