Former UFC champion Conor McGregor, renowned for his two-weight dominance, has once again taken aim at Khabib Nurmagomedov. In a candid exchange at a recent press conference, McGregor asserted that he would fight Nurmagomedov with bare fists if the opportunity ever arose, a claim that has sparked wide discussion in MMA circles. The exchange underscores a long-standing rivalry that continues to captivate fans across North America and beyond, with outlets like MMA News highlighting the bold statements coming from the Irish star.
McGregor did not mince words when addressing Khabib, stating that Nurmagomedov does not represent Russia in his view. He criticized the former champion for what he described as personal financial troubles and a subsequent escape from competition. The fighter went on to express a desire for a bare-knuckle confrontation, while adding that Nurmagomedov would be unlikely to agree to such a match. The comments reflect McGregor’s ongoing readiness to push the envelope in search of high-profile clashes, regardless of the form those fights might take.
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s final bout took place in the autumn of 2020, when he defeated Justin Gaethje to cap an undefeated run in the UFC. Shortly after that victory, Nurmagomedov announced his retirement from professional fighting, explaining that he had promised his mother he would not return to the sport without his late father in his corner. Since stepping away from competition, Nurmagomedov has launched Eagle FC, a promotion seeking to extend his influence within the sport beyond his own active years as a competitor.
Across his career, Nurmagomedov compiled 29 MMA wins, staying undefeated through every contest. His impact was felt beyond the cage, earning him recognition as a leading figure in sports during 2021 in the form of a year-end honor from the Public Opinion Foundation. On October 22, 2023, Nurmagomedov announced a broader withdrawal from anything directly connected to fighting, signaling the end of an era for many fans who followed his journey closely.
Earlier in his storied rivalry with McGregor, Nurmagomedov had defeated the Irish star by submission in the fourth round during their 2018 clash, a bout that remains a landmark moment in UFC history and a reference point for many future discussions about the rival’s contrasting styles. This history adds layers to the current dialogue, as both fighters continue to be part of the broader conversation around the sport’s evolution and legacy.
Meanwhile, McGregor has shown a penchant for high-stakes bets and bold gestures, including a notable wager related to the Euro 2024 final where he publicly pledged a substantial sum and demanded an exact score prediction. Such moves illustrate McGregor’s enduring appetite for headlines and his willingness to engage in dramatic bets that keep him in the public eye, even as he navigates the changing landscape of MMA and combat sports.