Islam Makhachev Fancies His Chances Against Conor McGregor in Boxing
Islam Makhachev is not afraid to take on the Irishman in his own arena after Zuffa Boxing floated a potential boxing matchup.
Less than a month ago, Islam Makhachev retained his crown against Ian Machado Garry in an intense 25-minute sprint. Beyond the Dagestani's notorious wrestling, fans also saw a glimpse of Makhachev's striking abilities. However, the undisputed welterweight champion believes he has the hands to take on Conor McGregor, as well.
Islam Makhachev Disregards the 'Notorious'
Zuffa Boxing co-founder Turki Alalshikh recently set up a call between the two UFC legends in hopes of a potential boxing contest. While Dana White laughed that idea off, the P4P best fighter trusts his odds against McGregor if the bout happens to be.
“Well, if I say he’s not dangerous at all, that would be wrong,” Makhachev told Ushatayka, downplaying exactly what makes the 'Notorious' so dangerous.
Elaborating further, Khabib Nurmagomedov's protege claimed McGregor would only be a threat for 3 minutes.
“He’s dangerous, yes, in the first round. But after that, I don’t think he has much of a chance,” Makhachev concluded.
🥊👀 Islam Makhachev admits Conor McGregor would be dangerous in round one if they boxed, but not dangerous after that:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 13, 2026
“Well, if I say he’s not dangerous at all, I would be wrong. He’s dangerous, yes in the first round. But, after that I don’t think he has much of a chance.”… pic.twitter.com/TemXevSIiN
While the Dagestani isn't exactly known for his striking, a head kick that dropped Ian Garry in their UFC 330 clash showcases Makhachev's impressive adaptability. A background in sambo before transitioning to MMA definitely proves his versatility. Still, when it comes to boxing, the Irish striker undoubtedly has more finesse under his belt.
This comment, however, is not uncharacteristic of the welterweight phenom, especially considering the Notorious's long-storied rivalry with the Dagestanis. Back in 2018, lightweight phenom Khabib Nurmagomedov went toe-to-toe against McGregor in what is, hands down, one of the most hyped fights in UFC history.
Delivering the 2nd loss in the Irish's UFC record, the Dagestanis continue to have a strained relationship with McGregor. In fact, Makhachev isn't even concerned about the pay if he gets a go at Notorious.
Islam Makhachev Ready to Box McGregor Regardless of Money
In the same interview, Islam Makhachev also discussed his monetary demands for a potential boxing debut.
The Dagestani is well aware of the lucrative boxing scene. And although he hasn't given a number, Makhachev quipped, “Honestly, regardless of money, I’d box specifically against Conor.”
There's no denying the lasting tension between the parties years after their initial beef. Makhachev's determination to make McGregor bite the dust inside the ring only solidifies it. In fact, the P4P best fighter pulled no punches criticising the Irishman after his latest disappointment against Holloway.
"Conor beat Conor, congrats Max," Makhachev wrote on X.
The Irish fighter himself has yet to respond to this boxing callout. But with their shared history, both have a lot at stake if this back-and-forth reaches the ring.
