Conor McGregor Amplifies Major Black Mark on Team Khabib Nurmagomedov Over Steroid Use

Multiple fighters from Khabib Nurmagomedov's team have popped for drug testing violation, leaving Conor McGregor angered.

Conor McGregor Amplifies Major Black Mark on Team Khabib Nurmagomedov Over Steroid Use

Conor McGregor takes shots at Khabib Nurmagomedov's teammate being stripped due to PED use (via Instagram, ESPN)

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Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov are two fighters whose rivalry defined a significant era in mixed martial arts. Their clash reshaped the lightweight division and extended beyond competition itself. Years after their bout, animosity between the two has remained evident in their online activity. That tension resurfaced when McGregor reposted news of a failed PED test involving Movlid Khaybulaev.

McGregor had recently taken a noticeable break from social media activity before reappearing online. His return followed reports of time spent undergoing psychedelic-based rehabilitation away from public view. Soon after resuming posts, McGregor turned his attention toward Nurmagomedov’s involvement in a recent NFT auction. He criticized the project, escalating hostilities between the longtime rivals once again.

Khaybulaev’s suspension resulted from a failed drug test tied to his participation in the PFL competition. He was the 2021 PFL featherweight champion and had remained undefeated throughout his professional career. The violation led to a one-year suspension along with the stripping of his championship title. McGregor reposted the suspension news on both Instagram and X, highlighting it as a jab toward Team Khabib.

Khaybulaev is not the first fighter associated with Nurmagomedov’s camp to face anti-doping penalties. PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov previously tested positive for an undisclosed banned substance. That violation resulted in a six-month suspension and a $50,000 fine under league regulations. The case also drew McGregor’s attention, prompting him to call out the Nurmagomedov camp publicly.

The Irishman himself is currently dealing with an extended suspension under anti-doping protocols. He received an 18-month suspension after failing to appear for three separate drug tests in 2024. Missed tests are treated as violations equivalent to failed samples under regulatory standards. The development later caught Nurmagomedov’s attention, leading him to repost the news on his Instagram story.

Despite ongoing disciplinary matters, Conor McGregor has continued training to return to competition. He has publicly expressed interest in securing a spot on a proposed UFC White House event in 2026. Khabib Nurmagomedov remains retired while staying involved through coaching roles. Their rivalry continues indirectly as developments involving both camps resurface.

Conor McGregor’s sparring partner goes off at Team Khabib Nurmagomedov fighter failing drug test

Brendan Loughnane faced Movlid Khaybulaev in 2021 during his fifth fight under the PFL banner. The bout was highly competitive and lasted the full scheduled distance. Loughnane ultimately lost by split decision after a close contest. The defeat ended his seven-fight winning streak and marked the first setback in his PFL career.

Conor McGregor and Brendan Loughane
Conor McGregor and Brendan Loughnane (via MMA Fighting)

Loughnane has trained with Conor McGregor and has been part of sessions at McGregor’s camps. He has previously acknowledged the Irishman’s role in supporting him through challenging periods of his career. The connection between the two has remained consistent over the years. That background led to Loughnane publicly expressing disappointment following news of Khaybulaev’s failed drug test.

This fight literally cost me millions of dollars. Lost a split decision to a known cheater. Sport is wild.

Brendan Loughnane via X

The situation has drawn attention to past matchups involving Khaybulaev and their broader implications. Conor McGregor’s continued involvement in discussions around Team Khabib Nurmagomedov has kept the issue in focus. Loughnane’s reaction added another perspective tied to direct competitive history. Together, McGregor and Loughnane remain linked to the unfolding narrative surrounding the suspension.

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