Conor McGregor has once again made it clear that he doesn’t think much of Justin Gaethje’s abilities inside the Octagon.
Gaethje is the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion after pulling off a big upset at UFC Freedom 250. “The Highlight” was a sizable underdog going into his title unification bout with Ilia Topuria on the White House lawn. Gaethje put damage on Topuria’s face in the first round and he only made things worse for “El Matador” as the fight progressed.
After surviving a knockdown in the second stanza, Gaethje started to take over. He ended up breaking Topuria’s orbital bone and forced him to remain on his stool before the fifth round could begin.
Despite Gaethje earning his first undisputed UFC title, McGregor remains unimpressed. During a recent interview with Paramount, the “Notorious” one admitted he still doesn’t view Gaethje as an elite fighter (h/t MMAFighting).
“Max [Holloway] has flatlined Justin,” McGregor said. “He knocked him out. Face down. Out cold.
“Justin’s OK. When he’s on, Justin’s OK. When he’s bad, he’s atrocious. He’s woeful. He slaps his punches a lot. But he’s very, very durable and he’s unorthodox in his style.”
It’s not the first time McGregor has ripped Gaethje’s skill level. He went as far as to call the UFC Lightweight Champion “atrocious” during a recent chat with Ariel Helwani.
When asked if he envisions another UFC title run, McGregor didn’t rule it out. He also noted that his body has evolved to compete at welterweight now.
“For sure [I can make a run at the title],” McGregor said. “I’m a 170-pound fighter now. I already held the 155-pound unified UFC world title. I’m open for business. I wish for activity. I’ve got a great fight in front of me.”
McGregor is focused on his return fight set for UFC 329 on July 11. The popular Irishman will be sharing the Octagon with Holloway. The two first met back in 2013, which was long before either man became the MMA legends they are today.
Do you think we’ll get to see Conor McGregor vs. Justin Gaethje, or will the fight never come to fruition? Leave a comment below.
