Conor McGregor Thinks Ilia Topuria Getting Banged Up Puts ‘El Matador’ in a Dark Place

UFC superstar Conor McGregor analyzes the mistakes made by Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250 which led to one of the biggest upsets of the year.

Conor McGregor Thinks Ilia Topuria Getting Banged Up Puts ‘El Matador’ in a Dark Place

Conor McGregor talks about Ilia Topuria's loss at UFC Freedom 250 (via Bleacher Report, MMA Fighting)

Conor McGregor remains one of the most influential figures in MMA history. The former UFC champion established a blueprint for success that reshaped the sport and inspired many fighters. However, Ilia Topuria appeared to be following a similar path before Justin Gaethje halted his rise with a brutal performance at UFC Freedom 250. McGregor recently weighed in on Topuria’s future and potential.

Topuria entered UFC Freedom 250 with his undefeated record intact and the UFC lightweight championship around his waist. The Spaniard was making the first defense of his title after capturing the vacant belt with a first-round knockout of Charles Oliveira. A victory over the interim champion on the historic White House card would have further strengthened his position among the sport’s biggest stars.

What unfolded in Washington was a devastating night for Topuria against the toughest opponent of his UFC run. Gaethje dropped the Spaniard in the third round and continued inflicting damage before the fight was stopped after four rounds. A distraught Topuria covered his face while leaving the Octagon, with the defeat later prompting McGregor to assess the former champion’s shortcomings.

I knew that was gonna happen to him. You need to get it put on you in the gym. He’s walking forward with the hands down on the opening bell, you’re gonna get walloped. He’s a bit flat footed, he’s not a full complete fighter. But he’s good. His face will have to heal, it’s smashed up. I’ve not been there before, I’ve only bled my blood once inside the octagon. He’s got banged up bad. It’s gonna be a dark place that he’s in right now. He’s gonna have to dig deep. Can he do it? I think he could.

Conor McGregor via The Ariel Helwani Show

McGregor was among the first fighters to react to Topuria’s defeat at UFC Freedom 250. While he initially highlighted flaws in the former champion’s approach and striking habits, he also suggested the setback would help Topuria improve and return stronger in the future. The Irishman also defended the Georgian-Spanish star against criticism and trolling from boxing star Terence Crawford following the main event.

The positive remarks were notable given the history between the two fighters. ‘El Matador’ has previously criticized McGregor over his public controversies and openly stated his ambition to take over the Irishman’s place as the sport’s biggest star. McGregor, meanwhile, has rarely remained silent during their exchanges, often firing back on social media as the rivalry has continued to simmer in recent years.

Many have drawn comparisons between Topuria and McGregor due to their confidence, championship success, tattoos, and rapid rise to stardom. Both built reputations as outspoken competitors who consistently delivered inside the cage. While Topuria suffered a major setback at UFC Freedom 250, Conor McGregor’s comments suggested the Spanish star still has the ability to return to the top.

RELATED
Ilia Topuria Channels ‘Inner Conor McGregor’ to Hype Up UFC Freedom 250 With Fiery Trash-Talk

Conor McGregor reveals the driving force behind his UFC comeback

Conor McGregor is preparing for his long-awaited return against Max Holloway at UFC 329, marking one of the most anticipated comebacks in mixed martial arts history. The Irish superstar has been sidelined since suffering a severe leg break against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. That injury occurred after a stoppage in their trilogy bout and forced McGregor into an extended recovery period away from active competition

Conor McGregor to potentially return at the International Fight Week
Conor McGregor to potentially return at the International Fight Week (via X)

However, many believed McGregor would never return to combat sports after years of controversy and a lifestyle marked by partying and public incidents. Despite that, McGregor began posting training and sparring clips, signaling renewed focus and hinting at a return. UFC CEO Dana White later confirmed his scheduled return for UFC 329. ‘The Notorious One’ also recently revealed what inspired his comeback.

I can withstand the pain the longest. For the fun of it, for the joy, for the thrill, I yearn for this. I year for competition. I always knew I’d come back. This is the pain game, who can last the longest, who can withstand, and I can withstand, and there you go, I’m back.

Conor McGregor via The Ariel Helwani Show

A key storyline around McGregor’s career has been his massive financial success. His Proper No. Twelve whiskey was part of a reported $600 million valuation deal in 2021. That level of wealth is widely viewed as a turning point in his career narrative. Ultimately, Conor McGregor’s comeback inspiration is framed by a blend of legacy-hunting, competition, and the desire to prove himself again inside the cage.

Also Read: