Khabib Nurmagomedov claims UFC staged McGregor rivalry

Khabib Nurmagomedov attributes his heated rivalry with Conor McGregor to UFC strategies.

Khabib Nurmagomedov reveals UFC's role in McGregor rivalry

Khabib Nurmagomedov has shared insights on his rivalry with Conor McGregor, stating that much of the tension was orchestrated by UFC president Dana White. In a recent interview, Nurmagomedov discussed the infamous bus incident at UFC 223, where McGregor threw a metal object at a bus containing fighters, including Nurmagomedov. This event heightened anticipation for their eventual fight at UFC 229. Nurmagomedov emphasized that this was not merely spontaneous but rather a carefully constructed narrative driven by the UFC. He noted how White facilitated the buildup, allowing access and creating opportunities for confrontation. Despite the UFC's promotional strategies, Nurmagomedov reflected on how their rivalry evolved naturally, noting that current fighter matchups lack similar buzz, even with compelling athletes.

Nurmagomedov's remarks shed light on the intricate relationship between fighters and promotional strategies in mixed martial arts. It reveals the extent to which the UFC shapes narratives to fuel excitement around events. While rivalries like Nurmagomedov vs. McGregor are iconic, the challenge remains for the UFC to create new storylines that resonate with fans. The current lack of compelling rivalries may pose a risk to engagement as audiences seek more than just athletic competition; they crave the drama that comes with personal stakes. This dynamic suggests that while the UFC continues to thrive financially, it must innovate to maintain excitement in the sport.

Highlights

Khabib's insights emphasize the need for warmth in rivalries to capture audience attention.