Makhachev Points to Finances Behind McGregor’s Return
Islam Makhachev has reignited his verbal sparring with Conor McGregor, claiming that the former two-division Ultimate Fighting Championship titleholder is extending his mixed martial arts career purely to address financial pressures following years of high-profile spending. Speaking in an interview with MMA Junkie, the reigning UFC welterweight champion offered a blunt assessment of McGregor’s motivations as the Irish star works his way back from a severe leg injury sustained during his comeback preparations.
Surgery and the Long Road to Recovery
McGregor, who became the first fighter in promotional history to hold two championship belts simultaneously, has been sidelined following a complicated rehabilitation process. The Dublin native recently underwent successful surgery to repair an anterior cruciate ligament tear and a meniscus injury. While the procedure went according to plan, the timeline for his return points toward the next calendar year, where he intends to fulfill the final bout remaining on his current UFC promotional agreement.
Accusations of Heavy Spending
Makhachev suggested that the Irishman’s lifestyle choices have left him needing to step back into the Octagon despite already establishing a massive financial empire through pay-per-view sales. «Maybe he spent all his money on drugs and alcohol. He needs more money», Makhachev told MMA Junkie, questioning the underlying drive of a fighter who has broken nearly every pay-per-view record the organization holds.
Fading Goodwill Between Rival Camps
The remarks from the Dagestani champion highlight a complex dynamic between the two camps. Just weeks earlier, members of the Team Khabib stable expressed sympathy upon learning of the severity of McGregor’s physical setback, which disrupted his long-awaited return to competition under UFC CEO Dana White after a prolonged absence from the cage. However, the momentary goodwill has quickly faded as both fighters trade public evaluations of each other’s career arcs and financial futures.
A Projected Move to Boxing
Beyond the financial accusations, Makhachev added fuel to ongoing speculation surrounding McGregor’s post-UFC career path. The welterweight champion indicated that the 37-year-old star is likely viewing his contractual obligation as a bridge toward lucrative alternative combat sports ventures, specifically pointing to boxing as a likely landing spot once his current promotional deal concludes.
Uncertainty Ahead for the Final Bout
«I heard he has one last fight left on his contract», Makhachev stated. «I think he’s going to fight one last time and then move to boxing or somewhere else to make money». Neither McGregor nor representatives for the UFC have officially confirmed any matchmaking details for the final fight of his contract, leaving the exact opponent and event date unannounced as rehabilitation continues.
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