Featured Image Credit: Netflix
Topics: Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, UFC, Fan Reactions
Nasir Jabbar
Topics: Conor McGregor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, UFC, Fan Reactions
Conor McGregor's immediate reaction to Khabib Nurmagomedov's shock retirement has been captured in a fascinating video.
Nurmagomedov called time on his legendary MMA career following his submission victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 back in October 2020.
It was just his second fight after beating McGregor, with 'The Eagle' unexpectedly retiring during his emotional post-fight interview with Jon Anik.
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Nurmagomedov hanging up his gloves prevented a blockbuster rematch with McGregor, who cut a shocked figure after his rival stepped away from Octagon.
The current UFC star's new Netflix documentary 'McGregor forever' shows his reaction to Nurmagomedov's retirement and it makes for incredible viewing.
The clip shows the Irishman watching the UFC 254 main-event before giving his thoughts on the then-UFC lightweight champion's decision to walk away from the sport.
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Asked if he was surprised by Nurmagomedov's retirement, McGregor replied: "I little bit, yeah. Although I know he's always had retirement on his mind. He doesn't really want to be in there too much I don't think.
"So, yeah, it is what it is. He said he had a conversation with his mother and talked to her for three days. It is what is it. I couldn't give a f**k."
McGregor was then asked if he had a 'slight tinge of disappointment' at not being able to avenge his defeat to which he replied: "It will happen. I don't believe him."
McGregor's stunned reaction got fight fans talking online as they made a series of claims about his emotions towards the Russian's retirement.
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One Twitter user wrote: "You can tell in a way he was bummed out that Khabib retired."
A second tweeted: "You can feel the sadness and disappointment that he retired but same time you can see he felt some sort of joy for Khabib."
A third added: "Explains how much McGregor has chirped at Khabib after that fight with Gaethje. He wants revenge so bad and he’s never gonna get it."
A fourth claimed: "Deep down he really respect the dude as a fighter."
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Another said: "Dang he was pretty sad."
Despite what McGregor thought back then about Nurmagomedov's retirement, a second meeting appears completely off the cards.
The 'Notorious' has since gone 1-2 in the UFC following their explosive meeting at UFC 229. He beat Donald Cerrone before suffering back-to-back defeats to Dustin Poirier.
He's set to return to action against Michael Chandler later this year, having come up against him in The Ultimate Fighter.
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Nurmagomedov vs. McGregor II... what could have been.