UFC Lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov has apologised for the violent scenes that followed his victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 229.
Nurmagomedov leapt from the octagon and fought a member of McGregor’s team, while the Irishman had a bust-up with some of the Russian’s entourage. Three of the winner’s party were arrested but later released. “I want to say sorry,” said the 30-year-old after Las Vegas fight. “This is not my best side.” He also revealed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had been in touch to congratulate him for his victory.
McGregor, 30, did not speak to the media following the event, but later posted on social media: “Good knock. Looking forward to the rematch.” The melee created an ugly atmosphere inside the T-Mobile Arena, and Nurmagomedov was led from the octagon before his belt could be presented to him. UFC chief Dana White later explained they feared more violence would break out in the 20,000-strong crowd if the presentation went ahead. He added the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which sanctioned the fight, was investigating the matter.
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