NURMAGOMEDOV FACES BAN AND FINE AFTER TEAM ATTACK RIVAL
KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV’S shameful attack on Conor McGregor’s team-mate could cost him £1.5million – but the Irishman will avoid punishment for his role in the brawl.
The Russian faces a ban after the Las Vegas authorities withheld his seven-figure purse while they investigate. He could also be stripped of the UFC lightweight title he defended so brilliantly.
The Nevada Athletic Commission’s executive director Bob Bennett said: “We’ll leave no stone unturned. It’s a shame that a great night of fights ended the way it did.”
Following his dominant performance against the former two-weight champion, Nurmagomedov climbed out of the Octagon to confront Dillon Danis.
McGregor attempted to race to his training partner’s side, but was stopped by security staff.
He was then attacked by two of his opponent’s team – although footage showed it was the Dubliner who threw the first blow before he was hit by a suckerpunch from behind.
McGregor was led away from the chaos and left the arena after being told his £2.2m purse would be paid, with the 30-year-old adjudged not to have been at fault by the commission.
He later demanded a rematch with Nurmagomedov who apologised for his actions.
“I want to say sorry to the Athletic Commission and to Las Vegas,” he said.
“This is not my best side, I am a human being.”