Conor McGregor reacts to Ilia Topuria aiming to break historic record at UFC 308, issues new nickname for 'El Matador'
Conor McGregor recently targeted Ilia Topuria in his latest social media rant. In addition, McGregor gave a new nickname for Topuria, who is already known as 'El Matador' in the MMA community.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show prior to his title fight against Max Holloway at UFC 308 on Oct. 26, Topuria stated his intention to break the record for the fastest knockout in UFC history. The record is currently held by former BMF champion Jorge Masvidal, who used a flying knee to knock out Ben Askren five seconds into their fight.
In response to Topuria's remarks, which were shared by Home of Fight on X, McGregor backed Holloway ahead of their title matchup, writing:
''Very exciting! How it’s done. The McGregor playbook. I know exactly what Max should do here to break the face. I am excited for this match. @ufc''
McGregor referred to Topuria as a puppy in another X post, writing:
''Little puppy paws he has. Check the little puppy paws on him. He is Spanish is he? Has he a fight nickname, this guy? I now christen him “The Puppy."
Taking another jab at the reigning featherweight champion, McGregor stated that Topuria shouldn't be dubbed 'El Matador' because bullfighting isn't prevalent in Georgia.
''Georgia does not have bullfighting. His prior nickname is terminated. He is now “The Puppy” which is a good name, everybody likes puppies."
As for McGregor, following multiple delays, the Irishman was set to make his highly anticipated octagon return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303. However, a toe injury forced him out of the bout.
In his interview with Bloody Elbow following BKFC Spain, McGregor confirmed his plans to return early next year, in line with UFC CEO Dana White's assertions.
Ilia Topuria dismisses a potential fight with Conor McGregor
Ilia Topuria and Conor McGregor have found themselves trading barbs on social media in recent months.
In his aforementioned interview with Ariel Helwani, Topuria took another jab at McGregor, asserting that the former two-division champion is a ''fake fighter'' and a matchup between them is highly unlikely.
''He’s [McGregor] a fake fighter. He fakes all the time that he’s going to fight...I feel bad…that’s never going to happen, never. How? I’m the world champion and he’s not even in the rankings...Official fight? That’s impossible. And right now at this point, I have much bigger fights than Conor McGregor. Conor McChicken.”
Check out Ilia Topuria's comments below (14:40):