Former UFC welterweight champion Ben Askren has weighed in on the ongoing feud between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov. According to Askren, McGregor’s relentless shots at Nurmagomedov are fueled by jealousy. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this animosity and explore why McGregor’s envy runs deep.
The Infamous UFC 229 Clash
At UFC 229, McGregor and Nurmagomedov faced off in a highly anticipated title fight. The build-up was intense, marked by trash talk, heated press conferences, and personal attacks. When the dust settled, Nurmagomedov emerged victorious, submitting McGregor to retain his lightweight belt. The bad blood didn’t end there—Nurmagomedov famously leaped over the cage to attack McGregor’s corner, sparking a brawl that left a lasting impression.
Since that fateful night, Conor McGregor has continued to take shots at Nurmagomedov. He accused the Dagestani fighter of running from competition when Nurmagomedov retired in October 2020. Recently, McGregor mocked Nurmagomedov’s alleged underpayment of taxes, calling it “typical rat behavior.” McGregor’s disdain for his rival remains palpable, but Askren believes there’s more to it than meets the eye.
The Root of Conor McGregor’s Jealousy According to Askren
Askren theorizes that Conor McGregor’s jealousy stems from a deep desire for respect. Despite his immense wealth, McGregor yearns to be the most respected fighting champion on the planet. However, that title belongs to Nurmagomedov. “Khabib is a fighting champion that everyone has a deep amount of respect for because of the way he lived his life,” says Askren. Nurmagomedov’s integrity, work ethic, and sportsmanship have earned him admiration from fans and fellow fighters alike.
Askren doesn’t mince words: “No money can make up for that.” McGregor’s lavish lifestyle, controversies, and occasional run-ins with the law pale in comparison to the unwavering respect Nurmagomedov commands. While McGregor may have all the wealth in the world, he can’t buy the genuine admiration that Nurmagomedov has earned through his actions both inside and outside the cage.
As McGregor prepares for his return to the Octagon after a long layoff, his jealousy towards Nurmagomedov remains evident. Whether he faces Nurmagomedov again or not, McGregor’s pursuit of respect continues. Meanwhile, Nurmagomedov’s legacy as a true champion endures, untarnished by material wealth or fleeting fame.
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