Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor finally faced off five months after that celebrated UFC 223 bus attack that got the Irishman into a lot of trouble. Although he was punished for that incident, most knew that nothing would change moving forward.
And all that was in full display when both fighters faced off at the recent press conference in New York to promote their upcoming fight at UFC 229 set to take place on Oct. 6. McGregor was his old loud-mouthed self, using foul language and hurling different types of insults towards the way of the undefeated Russian mixed martial artist.
To those who have been following McGregor, such a scene is hardly surprising although some do have their share of criticism. Some feel that the “Notorious” went a bit far while others believe that it was the same old McGregor back to his old attention-seeking ways. Regardless, these have been his trademark prior to all his fights, a hype that most brand as a way to gain traction.
Script or not, Nurmagomedov was far from amused at the tirade. He believes that McGregor’s rant was a bit overboard and that he is a poor role model, TMZ said. The Russian mixed martial arts fighter believes the foul language didn’t set the best example for their followers even if these are seemingly normal for the foul-mouthed Irishman.
Calm and composed, Nurmagomedov vouches he wants to be a good role model. He claims he was not irked at the tirades and shots hurled his way and vowed to “smash” the former champion once they meet in the Octagon on Oct. 6.
However, it was an odd setting considering there was no audience in the Radio City Music Hall to witness the show, ESPN said. But the reason behind that is to avoid casualties and prevent things from getting out of hand. One just has to recall what happened at UFC 223 where there were casualties – scripted or not.
Looking ahead, things are expected once both step into the Octagon. McGregor last faced Eddie Alvarez two years ago and his only appearance was that against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a boxing match. From afar, Nurmagomedov is expected to be in better shape although the Irishman may have quietly worked out with most unaware.
McGregor and Nurmagomedov will face off at UFC 229 on Oct. 6 in what promises to be an interesting fight. The Russian will be looking to preserve his clean slate while the Irishman will try to get back into the groove and seek his old place in the UFC.
