Khabib Nurmagomedov has made it clear that he is tired of talking about Conor McGregor. Stephen A Smith tried to force the conversation on ESPN, but Khabib didn’t give in. Nurmagomedov doesn’t believe Conor desires the press, nor a rematch due to inactivity. So even if McGregor defeats Dustin Poirier in their upcoming welterweight clash, Khabib doesn’t believe their fight should have lightweight contendership implications.
The names of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor will more than likely be linked to each other for eternity. Their rivalry runs deep in the sport’s short history has caused considerable controversy. Nor has any beef transcended the sport and seeped into close friends, nationalities, and even religion.
Khabib Explains McGregor vs Poirier Needing to Be at Lightweight
With suspensions and police involvement, the issues with the men didn’t end after they fought inside the UFC cage. After Khabib defeated Conor, he vowed to focus on deserving contenders. So, McGregor vs Poirier at welterweight doesn’t pique Khabib’s interest in his 155lb division.
“I still feel this but you have to fight at 155,” Nurmagomedov told TSN on Monday. “If they fight at 170 or 185, this is not lightweight contender fight. If you want to fight at lightweight contender for the belt you have to fight at lightweight. What is this, like? ‘OK, I’m champion at 155. OK, give me a fight at 170. OK, let’s make weight with Justin Gaethje at 170.’ Same thing. If you want to fight for the title at 155, you have to make 155.”
A Lightweight Legacy
Clearly, “The Eagle” is 100% focused on his matchup against Gaethje. Subsequently, Khabib won’t let Conor McGregor take control over the spotlight, or the headlines leading up to his title fight against Justin. Clearing out the lightweight division has been the aim of Khabib’s focus.
So, if Conor or Dustin wants a shot at the lightweight title, they should consider getting lightweight wins.
