NSAC not impressed with managers of Nurmagomedov, McGregor

Executive director for the Nevada State Athletic Commission Bob Bennett believes that the managers of UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and former champ champ Conor McGregor are just as responsible for the UFC 229 post-fight melee as the fighters.

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,’ said Bennett to MMAjunkie co-founders John Morgan and Steven Marrocco. 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.

McGregor’s manager, Paradigm Sports founder Audie Attar responded professionally.

We respect the commission and the work they are doing,” he said in a prepared statement. “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.

Nurmagomedov’s manager, Dominance MMA founder Ali Abdelaziz did not respond to a request for comment.

The fighters, as well as anyone licensed who took part in the melee face a variety of punishments including suspensions, fines, and in the case of the fighters, a fine based on a percentage of the purse. An NAC investigation is underway.