Conor McGregor makes surprise Islam Makhachev GOAT claim

Conor McGregor has ranked Islam Makhachev ahead of Khabib Nurmagomedov on his all-time UFC greatest-fighters list, crediting the current welterweight champion with a superior resume and longevity. While McGregor offered harsh criticism of Nurmagomedov's legacy, he praised Makhachev's accomplishments, noting that the Dagestani holds titles in two weight classes, has more finishes, and remains active in competition. "He's above Khabib. Finishes, body of work, both divisions. For sure, he is. Still at it," McGregor told Complex. "There's a lot left in that boy, and he should recognize that and keep going. I have him above both his teammates there, Cormier and [Nurmagomedov]." Makhachev (28-1) surpassed Nurmagomedov's (29-0) record by defending the lightweight title four times before moving to welterweight, where he dominated Jack Della Maddalena to capture the 170-pound strap last November. Makhachev is scheduled to defend his welterweight title against Ian Garry at UFC 330 on August 15 in Philadelphia. McGregor (22-6) returns to action July 11 at UFC 329 in Las Vegas, facing Max Holloway (27-9) in a welterweight matchup at the T-Mobile Arena.