Andrew Ravens
The fallout from UFC 326 has reignited a top rivalry in combat sports, with Conor McGregor already mapping out a path to a third fight against Nate Diaz. Despite being left off the “UFC Freedom 250” White House card, “The Notorious” remained the center of conversation this weekend, specifically targeting the BMF belt now held by Charles Oliveira.
McGregor was vocal in his criticism of Oliveira’s wrestling-heavy victory over Max Holloway. He believes the BMF title should return to its roots in the welterweight division.
“The BMF title was founded by Nate Diaz at 170 pounds. The creator of the belt,” McGregor said during a recent appearance on the Smash Cast. “So, the belt should be contested at 170 pounds, and I’m up for it. I’ll go and take it, and I’ll bring it back, and Nate and I can complete the trilogy for the belt.” McGregor argued that draining down to 155 pounds is unnecessary for a title that celebrates toughness.
Charles Oliveira, who earned a clean 50-45 sweep of the scorecards against Holloway to become the fourth BMF champion, was quick to address the barbs from both McGregor and Diaz. During the UFC 326 post-fight press conference, he dismissed McGregor’s social media posts, which labeled the main event “shockingly bad.”
Conor McGregor record: 22-6 (19 knockouts, 1 submission)
Oliveira made it clear that while his primary goal remains reclaiming the undisputed lightweight championship, he is more than willing to accept a “money fight” against the Irishman at any weight.
“You want to put them at 170, you want to put them up there, I don’t care, you want to put them at middleweight, we do it, it doesn’t matter,” Oliveira said. “I’ll tell you what—if you want it, make it a Grand Prix. Two fights, same day, and let’s see what happens.” Oliveira’s dismissive tone underscored his current position of power in the division, though he admitted that a fight with McGregor would be motivated purely by financial gain.
While McGregor’s ambitious plans for the BMF title and a Diaz trilogy have energized his fanbase, the reality of his return remains complicated. UFC CEO Dana White stated over the weekend that a deal for McGregor’s comeback is “not even close,” despite the fighter’s claims. However, McGregor revealed on the Smash Cast that his manager, Audie Attar, was in Las Vegas on Monday for a face-to-face meeting with UFC executives.
“I’m notoriously good to deal with, I’m an honest man,” McGregor said. “I hope a respectable offer comes through.”
