Conor McGregor Slams Khabib’s Legacy, Elevates Makhachev

McGregor’s Fierce Criticism of Khabib

Conor McGregor has once again taken aim at Khabib Nurmagomedov’s long‑term reputation, calling his accomplishments “nothing” in the sport. The former dual‑champion cited Khabib’s thirteen UFC fights, three of which came against well‑known opponents, as proof of a limited résumé. McGregor recounted his own comeback from a two‑year layoff, a broken toe, and a prior foot injury that left him nursing pain before the bout. He painted a picture of a fighter who “succumbed to his pain” and accused Khabib of lacking courage.

In the same interview, McGregor dissected Khabib’s pre‑UFC record, dismissing the dominance displayed at his father’s regional shows. He pointed out that Khabib never attempted to compete at a higher weight class, never missed a weight, and posted a win‑record with no stoppages or knockouts. The UFC 229 lightweight title fight was the highest‑selling pay‑per‑view in the company’s history, yet McGregor insisted the legacy remains thin. He ended the critique by saying he has “nothing to say” about Khabib because he simply “doesn’t rate him at all.”

Why McGregor Puts Islam Makhachev Ahead

McGregor quickly shifted praise to current UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, declaring the Russian fighter “above Khabib” in the greatest‑fighter discussion. He highlighted Makhachev’s finish‑record, diverse body of work across divisions, and the fact he remains active at the top level. McGregor described Makhachev as a “boy with a lot left” who should recognize his potential and keep pushing. The former champion even compared Makhachev favorably to his own teammates, suggesting the younger fighter has more to offer.

The endorsement underscores McGregor’s broader view that versatility and continued competition matter more than a pristine win‑loss record. By elevating Makhachev, he also indirectly downplayed Khabib’s achievements, framing the conversation around fighting spirit and cross‑division success.

McGregor’s Return to the Octagon

McGregor is set to rematch Max Holloway in Saturday’s UFC 329 main event at Las Vegas’s T‑Mobile Arena. Holloway carries a record of 27‑9 in MMA and 23‑9 inside the UFC, offering a seasoned challenge for the Irish knockout artist. The welterweight showdown will be broadcast on Paramount+, giving fans another chance to witness McGregor’s continued pursuit of heavyweight dominance. This fight marks the next chapter in a career that still generates massive buzz.