Dana White Says Money Changed Conor McGregor and Khabib’s Careers
Dana White’s recent comments have sparked fresh discussion around two of the UFC’s most iconic figures: Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov. In a quote highlighted by Menace MMA, White reflected on how major financial success altered the competitive trajectories of both men. His statement, “Money ruins everything… Conor made so much money, and that was it. Then Khabib made a load of money, and that’s it,” quickly drew attention across the MMA community.
McGregor’s rise from Dublin to global fame is one of the most dramatic stories in combat sports. After conquering two UFC divisions, he became the company’s biggest pay-per-view draw and one of the highest-paid athletes in the world. His 2017 boxing match with Floyd Mayweather elevated him into an entirely different financial bracket.
According to White, once McGregor reached that level of wealth, sustaining the same level of hunger and day-to-day discipline became much harder. His fight schedule over the past few years reflects that shift, shaped by injuries and a lifestyle filled with business ventures and commitments outside the cage.
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How Wealth Influenced Both Fighters’ Decisions
Khabib’s path, while very different in personality and motivation, led to a similar outcome. After dominating the lightweight division and retiring undefeated in 2020, Khabib stepped away from the sport to honor a promise made to his mother following the passing of his father and longtime coach, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov. While family reasons were central to his departure, White believes that the significant money Khabib earned toward the end of his career also played a role. Financial security often makes stepping away easier, especially for fighters who no longer feel compelled to endure the grind of championship preparation.
White’s comments reignite the debate over whether extreme wealth ultimately dampens a fighter’s competitive fire. McGregor and Khabib, despite their vastly different personalities and philosophies, both drifted from active competition after reaching extraordinary success. Their legendary 2018 fight remains one of the biggest moments in UFC history, but the chances of a rematch continue to fade.
In the end, White’s remarks highlight a truth many fans overlook: the hunger that drives fighters to greatness is difficult to sustain once life becomes comfortable. Yet their legacies remain among the most impactful the sport has ever seen.
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