“Little puppy paws” – Conor McGregor strips Ilia Topuria off iconic nickname ‘El Matador’

Former UFC champion Conor McGregor mocks current champion Ilia Topuria's Spanish nickname and changes it abruptly.


“Little puppy paws” – Conor McGregor strips Ilia Topuria off iconic nickname ‘El Matador’

Conor McGregor mocks Ilia Topuria (via Imago)

Conor McGregor‘s latest dispute is in full swing with the UFC featherweight champion Ilia Topuria. The Georgian-Spaniard is eager to become the next big thing and has chosen to clash with McGregor as the ideal path. As expected, the ‘Notorious’ has not taken this lightly and has repeatedly mocked Topuria on social media.

Ilia Topuria recently expressed his ambition to break the UFC record for the fastest knockout, aiming to surpass Jorge Masvidal‘s five-second finish. Conor McGregor, who famously knocked out José Aldo in just 13 seconds, took the opportunity to mock Topuria’s bold statement. In response, McGregor offered to change Topuria’s nickname, ‘El Matador,’ as part of his taunt.

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.”

Conor McGregor via X
YouTube video

‘El Matador’ in Spanish translates to ‘the killer,’ referring to the lead bullfighter in a traditional bullfight, a prominent part of Spanish culture. McGregor has often downplayed Ilia Topuria’s Spanish roots, frequently referring to him as the Georgian. Since bullfighting isn’t part of Georgian culture, McGregor sarcastically suggested that Topuria change his nickname.

FS Video

Recently, McGregor was in Spain to promote his BKFC event and made various headlines. During his visit, the Irishman made sure to mock the Spanish champion. Moreover, he backed Max Holloway at UFC 308. On the other hand, Topuria has talked about knocking out McGregor and has consistently dismissed his legacy. 

UFC Hall of Famer thinks about Conor McGregor’s legacy 

Conor McGregor transformed the UFC by becoming its most prominent figure, combining superb striking with unparalleled charm. He set pay-per-view records with his fights, increasing the sport’s global appeal.  McGregor’s persona and theatrics helped fighters gain marketability and public recognition. 

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor (via X)

McGregor inspired the new generation of fighters, such as Sean O’Malley and Ilia Topuria, to become what they are now. However, the Irish fighter is just a shadow of his past self and is desperate to come back. In a recent video, UFC Hall of Famer Chael Sonnen gave a detailed explanation of McGregor’s current legacy. 

During COVID, the UFC gained 67 percent to their audience…67 percent brand new fans. Which means unless they have they watch something archive, they have never seen Conor McGregor fight…If you keep that in mind, it’s a very fair point…have we forgotten how great he was?

Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel 
YouTube video

Although Conor McGregor has hinted at a potential fight against top lightweight contender Dan Hooker in early 2025, fan reactions have been mixed. McGregor’s recent antics have also fueled skepticism about the matchup. As for what’s next for ‘The Notorious,’ only time will tell.