Conor McGregor may have lost the big fight against his bitter rival, but he has finally been given some praise by Khabib Nurmagomedov after their vicious encounter. Khabib forced McGregor into submission in the fourth round in what was the most lucrative card in UFC history, selling 2.4 million pay-per-views.
In an interview with RT Sport, Khabib gave full credit to his opponent for the interest he brought to the event. He said:
"You know, you should give credit to Conor,"
"He is very popular. Was I as popular before the fight? I don't think so. But if you compare us as athletes, I proved that I am better.
"But as a star, he is much brighter than me. I don't know how much now, but before the fight, definitely."
McGregor is still after a rematch with his victorious opponent however that looks unlikely given the gulf in class between the two fighters in the first bout. Now Khabib could face Georges-St Pierre in his next bout which could see two of UFC’s greats face off against each other in the octagon.
The Russian has already heaped praise on his potential opponent via MMA Mania. He said: “Georges is greatest competitor in the UFC of all time,"
"Even if we fight, I think it's going to be a very tough matchup for me, and for him too. I never lose round in the UFC.
"I think I can give him very tough match. I know you guys love him, but when cage door close, I have to smash my opponents.
"In my mind, I think nobody can beat me."