Conor McGregor had a direct message for the current UFC Lightweight Champion, Islam Makhachev, during his visit to Dubai over the weekend. While attending the IBA Champions’ Night event, McGregor found himself in close proximity to Makhachev, who was seated directly across from him.
Amidst the evening’s events, McGregor playfully engaged in a face-off with former bantamweight champion Petr Yan, showcasing some lighthearted dance moves in the ring. Before the face-off, ‘The Notorious’ made a comment that was unmistakably directed at Makhachev’s location in the audience.
According to Full Combat‘s X account, the former UFC double champ said to Islam, “You know me, you know me. I’m ready to go anywhere, here and now I’m ready”.
Conor said this to Islam 😭 pic.twitter.com/dVHzOuDgSv
— Full Combat (@fullcombatoff) December 11, 2023
McGregor has consistently aimed verbal jabs at the ‘Dagestani Destroyer’ through social media and interviews ever since Islam Makhachev secured the 155 lbs title in 2022. However, the reigning champion doesn’t seem overly bothered by it. Something similar happened this time around too as Islam did not react at all.
Conor McGregor is presently on hiatus from competition following a leg injury sustained in 2021 at UFC 264. He is slated to make his return to the UFC in 2024, with UFC 300 being the anticipated event. He is the frontrunner to square off against Michael Chandler, a former Bellator lightweight champion and current UFC fighter.
Petr Yan reacts as Conor McGregor claims to be the best boxer in the UFC
In a recent interview, Conor McGregor asserted that he is the top boxer in the UFC. However, Petr Yan also presents a compelling case for holding the title of the best boxer. Originating from Russia, Yan boasts an impressive UFC record of 16 wins, 5 losses, and 0 draws. Among these 16 fights, Yan has secured victory in seven through knockout, showcasing his formidable striking prowess in the division.
Upon closer examination of the video, it becomes evident that Conor McGregor is in a light-hearted and relaxed mood as he responds to the question. “I love boxing. I am the best boxer in the UFC,” said the Irishman.
Nevertheless, he goes on to commend Yan for his boxing abilities, describing him as a “phenomenal boxer” and asserting that Yan is “as good” as McGregor himself, showing respect for Yan’s skills in the ring.
Petr Yan’s reaction to Conor Mcgregor saying that he is the best boxer in the UFC😂
🎥 Ushatayka pic.twitter.com/kG00dqPygI— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 11, 2023
Those acquainted with Conor McGregor’s journey won’t find his revelation startling. The former two-division UFC champion enjoyed a prosperous MMA career and even ventured into the realm of boxing. McGregor made a notable foray into boxing in 2017 when he engaged in a widely publicized bout against Floyd Mayweather, showcasing his versatility as an athlete.