Khabib Nurmagomedov explains his actions following UFC 229 brawl
Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has spoken out just hours after sparking a mass brawl following his victory over Conor McGregor, apologising to the Nevada State Athletic Commission in the process, the Daily Express report.
Nurmagomedov made it 27 wins from as many fight in Las Vegas, but overshadowed his dominant performance by his actions after clinching victory.
The Russian jumped the Octagon and flew into the crowd where he would target McGregor’s team-mate, Dillon Dannis.
Nurmagomedov’s entourage then blindsided McGregor, which would cause chaos at the T-Mobile Arena, resulting in both fighters being escorted from the ring without any interviews.
Talking at the post-fight press conference, Nurmagomedov issued an apology to the Nevada State Athletic Commission and explained why he lost his cool following his win.
I want to say sorry to the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
This is not my best side. He talked about my religion, my country, my father. He came to Brooklyn, he broke a bus and nearly killed two people. So why do people still talk about me jumping over the cage? I have shown respect.
I told you guys: his whole team and him, they are tap machines. Today he tapped. (I am) Undisputed and undefeated.
This is a respectful sport. This is not a trash-talking sport. I want to change this game. You cannot talk about religions and nations.
Nurmagomedov also revealed that he had been in contact with Russian president Vladimir Putin following the victory.
This for me is very important. Thank you for waiting for me. I know my father is gonna smash me when I go home. Nevada: sorry. Vegas: sorry.
He took a picture with Putin. But Putin just called me and told me he is proud of me. And he said congratulations.
As a result of his actions, Nurmagomedov didn’t receive his fight fee, with an investigation to what broke out following the main event already underway.