Summary
Highlights
Khabib Nurmagomedov starts the press conference without Conor McGregor, stating he doesn't need to wait. He discusses the significance of the fight, his preparation, and his focus on making weight. Khabib confirms he won't shake Conor's hand after the fight due to personal animosity. He also dismisses Tony Ferguson's claims of being the 'real champion' and addresses rumors of a 165-pound weight class, stating his focus is on the upcoming fight.
After waiting for Conor McGregor for 15 minutes, Khabib declares McGregor's absence a 'big disrespect' and announces his departure to focus on his weight cut. He promises to make weight the following morning.
Dana White talks about the immense anticipation for UFC 229, stating that pay-per-view numbers are tracking higher than the Mayweather vs. McGregor fight, making it a global event. He acknowledges the awkwardness of McGregor's absence but emphasizes that both fighters will be at the weigh-ins and fight as scheduled. White also calls the idea of a 165-pound weight class 'fake news' and discusses Conor McGregor as the biggest star in combat sports.
Conor McGregor finally arrives, attributing his lateness to heavy traffic, dismissing it as a 'mind game.' He expresses disappointment that Khabib didn't wait, suggesting it shows Khabib's fear. McGregor vows to defeat Khabib spectacularly and expresses his readiness for the fight, despite Khabib's past pull-outs.
McGregor launches a verbal assault, accusing Khabib's manager of being a 'snitch, terrorist rat' with a questionable past. He reveals his 'heart is black' towards Khabib and his team, stating the rivalry is personal and will 'never be over.' McGregor confidently predicts a strong performance, aiming to 'send that man's nose into the nose bleeds.' He also discusses the success of his Proper Twelve whiskey.
McGregor expresses his continued hunger for fighting, stating he's 'starving for this man's head.' He mentions potential future fights, including headlining Madison Square Garden soon after UFC 229, and reiterates his belief that the sport needs more weight classes like 165 and 175 pounds to create more champions and exciting matchups.
McGregor thanks Dana White for his kind words, comparing him to Muhammad Ali, but humbly states he cannot compare himself to such a great individual. He estimates his earnings for this fight could reach $50 million, highlighting the massive growth of the sport. McGregor confidently predicts he will be a billionaire by age 35.