Conor McGregor Called Out by Khamzat Chimaev to Fight on Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing

UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev calls out Conor McGregor for a boxing match after citing him as an inspiration.

Conor McGregor Called Out by Khamzat Chimaev to Fight on Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing

Khamzat Chimaev calls out Conor McGregor (via Instagram, X)

In Short
  • Khamzat Chimaev has called out Conor McGregor for a boxing match under Zuffa Boxing.
  • McGregor has prior boxing experience from his 2017 fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr.
  • Chimaev is preparing for his first middleweight title defense against Sean Strickland at UFC 328.

Conor McGregor’s influence on the UFC remains global and largely unmatched. The Irish star turned himself into a powerful brand that transcended the sport, making him one of the most marketable names in UFC history. Years after his last fight, discussions around his return continue to surface. Middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev has now surprisingly called him out for a boxing match under Zuffa Boxing.

McGregor has prior experience in professional boxing, most notably his 2017 bout against Floyd Mayweather Jr., which became one of the biggest pay-per-view events in combat sports history worldwide at the time. He ultimately lost via TKO in the 10th round after a competitive start. In comparison, Chimaev trains in boxing, but does not have an official record in the squared circle.

Chimaev is currently preparing for an upcoming bout against Sean Strickland, which is set to serve as his first middleweight title defense at UFC 328. In the lead-up to the fight, he has displayed increasingly dangerous boxing skills, sharpening his striking at Santo Studios as part of his training camp. During a recent interview ahead of UFC 328 fight week, ‘Borz’ also called out McGregor for a boxing match.

I’m not going to move over to boxing.I will be forever a UFC fighter. Maybe if Zuffa (Boxing) gives the chance, box with Conor, or if Conor wants to accept that. It would be nice. Why not? Conor is a good boxer, one of the best boxers in the UFC. It would be nice to try and go fight that guy. Good money, too. He talks better than Sean Strickland. It would be fun.

Khamzat Chimaev via KYNO TV

Chimaev also mentioned that Conor McGregor has always been an inspiration for him, pointing to the Irishman’s iconic 13-second knockout of Jose Aldo as a major source of motivation in his career and overall development. Following his title win at UFC 319, where he dominated Dricus Du Plessis, ‘The Notorious One’ also praised Chimaev as he became the first UFC champion from Chechnya.

Things between McGregor and Chimaev have not always remained cordial. McGregor had criticized the Chechen phenom for missing weight at UFC 279 and urged the promotion to cut him. On the other hand, Chimaev was willing to confront McGregor in Ireland after he heckled some of his Chechen compatriots ahead of his grudge match against Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229, but was sent off by authorities.

These talks come amid ongoing speculation surrounding Conor McGregor’s return to the UFC, with the Irishman initially expected to compete at a proposed White House event. He is now being linked to a comeback during International Fight Week at UFC 329. McGregor was also recently seen competing in an amateur boxing match in Ireland, but a potential clash against Khamzat Chimaev appears doubtful.

Conor McGregor reveals new business venture ahead of potential return

Conor McGregor has built a wide business portfolio beyond the UFC, highlighted by the success of Proper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey, which significantly boosted his earnings. He also launched McGregor FAST and ventured into fashion with August McGregor, as well as hospitality investments. These ventures have helped elevate his net worth to $200 million, reinforcing his status as a global entrepreneur.

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor (via X)

McGregor has now entered the energy drink market with the launch of MAC Energy, positioning it as a unique product in a highly competitive global industry. The drink was unveiled at the Beverage Forum in California and is expected to debut in July with multiple flavors available. MAC Energy stands out due to its formula, which includes around 200mg of natural caffeine and BHB ketones for sustained energy.

Hey folks, I have founded my latest venture. My creation for the $90bn per annum energy drinks category. However, it is unlike any other. It is the only energy drink with 5grams of the ketone “BHB” inside. The “energy” ketone. (Google BHB) I also have this ketone patented. Meaning, while all the sleeping giants in the category have just been caught off guard by the MAC! They can do nothing about it! Mac Energy is here! Enjoy, Beverage Forum, California! That’s how it’s done!

Conor McGregor via X

This latest move further highlights Conor McGregor’s continued push into the global beverage market as he expands his business empire. The launch of MAC Energy adds another layer to his growing portfolio outside the Octagon. It remains to be seen if fans will soon see him sporting a can of MAC Energy at a potential UFC press conference, especially amid ongoing talks of his return.

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