Does Conor McGregor get favored treatment from the UFC?
Since joining the UFC in 2013, Conor McGregor has rose through the ranks, and up the rich list. Knocking out Marcus Brimage in his promotional debut, ‘The Notorious’ lived up to his nickname from the jump.
Just four short years later, and the Irishman is globally recognized. Ascending past MMA, and sports in general, McGregor is a name known for many reasons. According to some fighters and fans, though, this was through a blend of ability and favored treatment.
Did McGregor Get Favorable Treatment?
Undoubtedly yes, ‘The Notorious’ was given exemptions in areas that other fighters simply wouldn’t have. Why is the question, and its not a difficult one to answer. Money talks, and although people don’t like that, its the fans who pay the money that makes a popular fighter a draw.
Obviously the UFC is going to push their biggest assets in any way possible. Would they let any other fighter fight at welterweight twice, while holding the featherweight belt, before then getting a shot at the 155-pound title?
UFC president Dana White has some insight:
Dana’s Long ‘Leash’
Speaking with The Exchange, as quoted by Yahoo, Dana White openly admits he’s given favorable treatment to Conor McGregor. In his mind, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that:
“In this sport you’re only going to have so many superstars. They’re very rare and very hard to find. I mean, you sit down and you listen to him, and when he’s joking, and when he laughs. He’s a very contagious guy… His timing is perfect. He’s witty. He’s smart. He’s hilarious.”
“Conor and I have always had a great relationship. Listen; do I give Conor a little more leash than I give some other people? Absolutely. You know why? Because Conor is one of these guys who steps up and fights. He steps up, he fights, puts all his chips out on the table. He’s one of a kind.”
Continued below…
Like…Ali?!?
“That’s how Conor became Conor, at press conferences and doing media. And he’s great at it. He’s the best. Seriously, he’s the best. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen anybody in the sport ever, other than (Muhammad) Ali, who is so entertaining, that can take a press conference and turn it into a must-see.”
