The animosity between Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, and Manny Pacquiao, the former eight-division boxing champion, has extended beyond the confines of the octagon and the boxing ring, evolving into a heated exchange of words. McGregor’s recent barbs aimed at Pacquiao, coupled with Pacquiao’s composed response, have the combat sports universe on tenterhooks.
Tracing back their interactions reveals a tapestry of legal skirmishes, potential duels, and now, pointed taunts. With both icons slated to attend the Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou bout in Riyadh, the atmosphere is ripe for a potential face-off.
Manny Pacquiao claps back to Conor McGregor’s head-kick threat
Recently, McGregor’s voice note on Platform X ignited the feud. In the note, he warned Manny about their legal debacle and even threatened Pacquiao with a head kick. He also mentioned about his former friend and now foe, Artem Lobov.
However, Manny Pacquiao, in an interview with MMA Junkie Mike Bohn, appeared unperturbed by McGregor’s provocations. He nonchalantly remarked, “Oh, he’s not active anymore,” alluding to McGregor’s hiatus post his 2021 leg break.
Amidst this verbal volley, the combat sports community is keenly waiting to discern if this exchange culminates in a tangible clash, be it in the ring or octagon. Conor McGregor’s re-entry into the combat scene has emerged with his recent enlistment in the USADA test roster. Everything alludes to a face-off against Michael Chandler in 2024, signaling his resurgence.
What did Conor McGregor say about Manny Pacquiao?
The origin of their clash dates back to 2021 when McGregor was set to square off against Pacquiao in a boxing match. However, this eagerly awaited showdown was derailed due to friction between Pacquiao and McGregor’s representation, Paradigm Sports.
Further complicating matters, Pacquiao encountered a legal setback against Paradigm Sports earlier this year. The firm contended that it had advanced over £2 million to Pacquiao prior to his withdrawal from a two-bout agreement. Now, Pacquiao appears to be sidestepping the ensuing $8 million resolution.
McGregor pressed for his $8 million from the lawsuit and menacingly warned Pacquiao of a head kick in an audio note on Platform X. Pacquiao didn’t seem bothered by the threat at all. However, their concurrent presence in Riyadh indicates that their discord may reach new heights. In the Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou bout, McGregor and Pacquiao’s presence elevates the event’s allure. Whether they’ll engage directly or let their rhetoric set the stage is uncertain.
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