In the ever-dramatic world of the UFC, former fighter Ben Askren has stirred the pot with his recent comments about the lingering animosity between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov. According to Askren, McGregor’s jealousy towards Nurmagomedov remains a significant factor in their ongoing feud, long after their infamous bout.
The rivalry between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov is one of the most heated in UFC history. It reached its zenith at UFC 229 in October 2018, where Nurmagomedov defeated McGregor via submission in the fourth round. The fight ended in chaos, with a post-fight brawl breaking out between the two camps, further cementing the bitterness between the fighters.
Ben Askren, known for his candid commentary, recently shared his thoughts on the enduring feud. Speaking on a podcast, Askren claimed, “Conor is still very much envious of Khabib. The fact that Khabib retired undefeated and as a champion is something that Conor can’t get over. It’s a constant source of frustration for him.”
Askren’s comments highlight a key aspect of McGregor’s psyche: his competitive nature and his struggle to accept Nurmagomedov’s unblemished record and the respect he commands in the MMA community.
Since their clash, McGregor’s career has seen its ups and downs. While he remains one of the most popular and highest-paid fighters in the sport, his performances have been inconsistent. Losses to Dustin Poirier and prolonged absences due to injuries have somewhat dimmed his once-dominant presence in the octagon.
Despite this, McGregor continues to be a major draw and a polarizing figure in MMA. His bravado and larger-than-life persona ensure that he stays in the headlines, whether it’s for his fights, business ventures, or social media antics.
On the other hand, Khabib Nurmagomedov retired in October 2020 with an undefeated record of 29-0, leaving the sport at the peak of his career. His decision to step away from the UFC was influenced by the passing of his father and coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. Khabib’s legacy is that of an unstoppable force in the lightweight division, and his departure left a void that is still felt in the UFC.
According to Askren, the feud between McGregor and Nurmagomedov extends beyond their physical altercations. “Conor is constantly trying to undermine Khabib’s achievements, whether through social media jabs or in interviews,” Askren noted. “It’s clear that the jealousy is still there, and it’s driving a lot of Conor’s actions.”
This ongoing tension keeps fans and fighters alike engaged, with many speculating about the possibility of a rematch, despite Khabib’s retirement. McGregor has repeatedly expressed his desire to avenge his loss, but Nurmagomedov has shown no interest in returning to the octagon.
Ben Askren’s revelation about Conor McGregor’s jealousy towards Khabib Nurmagomedov adds another layer to the complex relationship between the two MMA icons. As McGregor continues to seek redemption and Nurmagomedov solidifies his legacy outside the cage, their rivalry remains one of the most compelling narratives in the UFC. Whether or not this feud will ever see another chapter in the octagon, it undoubtedly continues to captivate the MMA world.
