Conor McGregor Calls Out Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Protege to Put Welterweight Title on the Line

UFC superstar Conor McGregor makes his case for a shot at newly crowned welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.

Conor McGregor Calls Out Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Protege to Put Welterweight Title on the Line

Conor McGregor sets eyes on Islam Makhachev (via MMA Fighting)

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The welterweight division has undergone significant developments in recent months, with Islam Makhachev emerging as a central figure after capturing the title at UFC 322. The division remains packed with rising and established contenders aiming for a championship opportunity. New names continue to enter the conversation as the picture shifts. Conor McGregor has now added himself to that growing list.

Makhachev secured the welterweight belt by defeating Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 through a dominant unanimous decision, scoring 50-45 across all three cards. The victory made him the 11th two-division champion in UFC history. His mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, entered the Octagon afterward, placed both titles on him, and lifted him on his shoulders.

McGregor has remained out of competition since suffering a severe leg break in his trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. His long-running rivalry with Nurmagomedov has continued to influence narratives around his future. Their history has added extra weight to McGregor’s choice of targets as he eyes a return. This context led to his recent comments signaling interest in Makhachev and a third division title.

I’m motivated, I’m self-motivated and I for sure want a crack at that belt. I for sure want a crack at that 170-pound belt to go for the triple crown. It would be a good fight, a good scrap, Southpaw, southpaw. It was a good performance out of him and fair play to him, he had the courage to do it, to go up. So yeah, I’m excited for it, let’s see what happens. Let’s get back in the mix.

Conor McGregor via Bloody Elbow

The rivalry between McGregor and Nurmagomedov remains active years after their original clash, carrying over into current discussions involving Makhachev. McGregor recently acknowledged Makhachev’s gesture of placing his two championships on his late father’s shoulders in tribute. He made the remark during a rant directed at Nurmagomedov regarding an alleged NFT scheme involving his father’s name.

Makhachev has repeatedly aimed at the Irishman by referencing his past controversies, including substance issues and public allegations involving women. Their exchanges have kept interest in a potential matchup alive. McGregor, on the other hand, had challenged the young Dagestani’s position as the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter.

Conor McGregor’s return is being discussed in connection with the UFC’s planned White House event in 2025, creating anticipation around his next move. The welterweight division, however, features several emerging contenders awaiting their opportunity. Fighters such as Michael Morales, Carlos Prates, and Ian Garry continue to build strong cases for a title shot.

Conor McGregor gets candid regarding the drawbacks of stardom

Conor McGregor’s trajectory has shifted from being one of the UFC’s biggest global superstars to becoming one of the most polarizing figures in combat sports. His success inside and outside the cage helped make him one of the richest athletes in the industry. He has expanded his profile through multiple business ventures and major sponsorship deals.

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor (FOX News)

The Irishman’s career and public persona kept him under a constant spotlight throughout his rise. He has faced a series of controversies, including legal disputes, public altercations, and ongoing scrutiny tied to his conduct. These incidents, paired with his competitive highs and lows, intensified attention around him. This environment formed the backdrop for his recent comments about the burdens of superstardom.

You know, you get these fighters, they come up, and no one cares about you. Then when you rise, you’ve gotta add this promotional animal to it – and both of them combined is incredibly draining. I wouldn’t be the first to tell you, it almost broke me. To be honest, maybe it did break me as I went on and achieved massive success and global, otherworldly superstardom. It overcame me at times.

Conor McGregor via BKFC 82 presser

His latest reflections arrive at a time when he has spoken of making personal changes, including developing a deeper spiritual outlook and participating in rehabilitation programs. These steps have prompted renewed discussion about his future direction. McGregor’s reassessment may signal a shift in how he approaches both career and personal life.

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