Conor McGregor takes Khabib Nurmagomedov-like jibe at Ilia Topuria while discussing their potential BKFC matchup
Conor McGregor threw a Khabib Nurmagomedov-like jab at Ilia Topuria at a recent BKFC press conference, referencing a past comment his Dagestani rival had made in support of Islam Makhachev's willingness to face Alexander Volkanovski on short-notice. McGregor made clear that he is not merely a shareholder at BKFC, but considers himself a "player-manager" and teased a potential career in the promotion once he completes his UFC contract.
As far as a fight with Topuria is concerned, McGregor minced no words over who he believes would be victorious. He said:
"You know, Ilia, Spanish-Georgian lad, he's not bad. He's got a boxing-heavy style, he would certainly land well in Bare-knuckle Fighting Championship. I'd slap him around, he's too small. I'm a big lad to compare to Ilia, but he's not bad. He's a current UFC world champion, and all these guys, make no mistake about it, are looking at this. So, if you're asking, it would be King Kong if you're asking me."
Check out Conor McGregor talk about fighting Ilia Topuria in BKFC (6:29):
Topuria has not made it a mystery that he hopes to face McGregor at some point in his career. However, given that he just won the featherweight title and is yet to record a single title defense, he has a long way to go before having the kind of negotiating power to demand a bout with McGregor.
Meanwhile, the Irishman is currently focused on his expanding his business dealings with BKFC, while simultaneously gearing up for an expected UFC bout with Michael Chandler, which he has assured will take place this year.
However, he hasn't forgotten Nurmagomedov, who he continues to jab at, even mirroring his words.
Conor McGregor mirrored Khabib Nurmagomedov with his quote
UFC 294 was initially set to be headlined by Islam Makhachev vs. Charles Oliveira. Unfortunately, the Brazilian withdrew from the bout due to a cut he suffered in sparring and was replaced by Alexander Volkanovski, who stepped in on short-notice.
While talking about his pupil's willingness to take on any challenger, Khabib Nurmagomedov referenced the King Kong character. He said:
"If somebody can make 155, and the UFC say this guy is a contender, who cares? It doesn't matter. Brother, if King Kong can make 155, okay, bring this here. Doesn't matter."
Check out Khabib Nurmagomedov praising Islam Makhachev:
While it is highly unlikely that McGregor deliberately mirrored Nurmagomedov, it is a curious parallel between two sworn enemies who were once on good terms.