There is no bigger rivalry in the world of MMA than Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov. While it has been six years since both fighters fought against each other, the animosity is still palpable. Interestingly there is an opportunity for both these superstars to go against each other to recreate the Irish vs. Dagestan showdown.
Irish PFL lightweight Paul Hughes has called for a title fight against Dagestani lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov. He has dubbed it as the second clash between Irish and Dagestani fighters. Drawing inspiration from McGregor’s rivalry with Nurmagomedov, Hughes hopes to have McGregor in his corner. In a recent interview, he humorously suggested that the fight may require some additional security.
You would need 200 extra security. But could you imagine Ireland vs. Dagestan number 2. That’s a great fight…If we get him in the corner that would be incredible.
Paul Hughes via The Ariel Helwani Show
Paul Hughes is asked if he thinks Conor McGregor could be in his corner if he fought Usman Nurmagomedov.#HelwaniShow pic.twitter.com/8iltQQDnrD
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) October 21, 2024
McGregor has already come in support and has promised to corner Hughes against Khabib Nurmagomedov’s team if the fight happens. Since their last clash, the ‘Notorious’ has consistently mocked Nurmagomedov and his team via several social media rants. The Irishman has accused the Dagestani of being a terrorist and using steroids.
Nurmagomedov has largely stayed silent, still disappointed over McGregor’s actions following their iconic UFC 229 fight. Considering the events of that night, Paul Hughes may not be far off in suggesting the need for 200 security guards. The infamous post-fight brawl remains one of the most memorable and controversial moments in UFC history.
Conor McGregor shares his side of the UFC 229 brawl
After Khabib Nurmagomedov submitted Conor McGregor at UFC 229, he jumped over the octagon to attack McGregor’s team. The ‘Eagle’ wanted to target Dillon Danis in particular which sparked a massive brawl between both camps. Several security officials ran to stop Nurmagomedov as the crowd went absolutely wild.
Inside the octagon, there was another fight going on as Team Khabib attacked McGregor owing to their previous altercations. Before the security team took control, there were few exchanges between both parties. In an interview, the ‘Mystic Mac’ shared how he dropped one of Nurmagomedov’s cousins during the brawl.
He(Khabib Nurmagomedov) jumped in to cause this chaos and went to attack. He was trying to just hide away when he jumped in, so he didn’t really do anything.. As I jumped on top of the cage, his brother came sprinting across…I seen him there. It was like a Christmas present. I smacked him right in the eye socket, and we started fighting on top of the cage. It got broken up
Conor McGregor via Tony Robbins Interview
Conor McGregor was given a six-month suspension and a $50,000 punishment for the UFC 229 altercation. Similarly, Nurmagomedov was given a nine-month suspension and a $500,000 fine. His teammates received penalties as well. Given the severity of the rivalry, it won’t be surprising to see something similar next time they come face to face.
