NSAC Chief Blames Nurmagomedov & McGregor’s Managers For UFC 229 Brawl

UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and former two division UFC champion Conor McGregor fought at UFC 229, with Nurmagomedov winning an dthen inciting a post-fight brawl.

While there may be a lot of blame to spread around for the situation, some of the biggest blame goes to both fighters managers according to Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) chief Bob Bennett.

“You should know that the Nevada State Athletic Commission made a concerted effort on two independent occasions to speak with both managers of both fighters and tell them, ‘Listen, we don’t want any problems during the ceremonial weigh-in and at the end of the fight,’” Bennett told MMA Junkie. “I specifically spoke with them. We didn’t want to be in a position that we’re in today had they would have managed their fighters in a professional manner. Unfortunately, they didn’t take heed to my comments, and that’s why we’re here today.”

Nurmagomedov is represented by Ali Abdelaziz, while McGregor is represented by Audie Attar.

Abdelaziz has yet to respond to what the NSAC chief said, but Attar issued the following statement to MMA Junkie:

“We respect the commission and the work they are doing. Our belief is that once they finish their investigation, the commission will conclude that this situation was caused by the dangerous and unprofessional actions of Khabib and that they will discipline Khabib accordingly.”

The NSAC is meeting again this December, which is when the punishments are expected to be handed out to Nurmagomedov and McGregor for the post-fight brawl.