Khabib vs McGregor New York press conference reaction
NEW YORK — With the UFC 229: Khabib vs Conor McGregor press conference in the books, MMA Fighting’s Marc Raimondi and Chuck Mindenhall look back at the lively event Thursday at Radio City Music Hall. Online Jobs
Source : mmafighting
Khabib vs McGregor New York press conference reaction
The clash between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor at UFC 229 on October 6, 2018, remains one of the most iconic — and controversial — moments in mixed martial arts history. The bout wasn’t just a fight; it was a cultural phenomenon, fueled by personal animosity, high stakes, and contrasting fighting styles.
Conor McGregor, the brash Irish striker and former two-division UFC champion, returned to the Octagon after a hiatus spent boxing Floyd Mayweather. Across from him stood Khabib Nurmagomedov, the undefeated Russian grappler known for his relentless wrestling, suffocating control, and calm demeanor.
Their rivalry escalated months before the fight, with McGregor’s infamous bus attack in Brooklyn — an incident that targeted Khabib and his team and added real tension to the buildup.
Inside the cage, Khabib’s game plan was no secret: take McGregor down, neutralize his striking, and impose a grinding pace. From the opening bell, Nurmagomedov executed flawlessly, scoring takedowns and dominating on the mat. Though McGregor had brief moments of success in the stand-up exchanges, Khabib’s pressure never wavered. In the fourth round, Nurmagomedov secured a neck crank submission, forcing McGregor to tap and extending his unbeaten record to 27–0.
However, the drama didn’t end there. Immediately after the victory, Khabib leapt over the cage to confront McGregor’s cornermen, sparking a chaotic brawl inside and outside the Octagon. The Nevada State Athletic Commission handed out fines and suspensions, but the event shattered pay-per-view records and solidified Khabib as a global star.
The fight symbolized more than a championship defense — it showcased a clash of cultures, personalities, and martial arts disciplines. Khabib’s victory cemented his legacy as one of the most dominant fighters in MMA history, while McGregor’s resilience kept his star power intact despite defeat.
