The Nevada State Athletic Commission handed down its punishments, suspending and fining both Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor for their respective roles in the post-fight brawl following their match at UFC 229.
Nurmagomedov (27-0), the current UFC lightweight champion, has been suspended for nine months and fined $500,000 of a disclosed $2 million purse. The suspension is dated retroactively to October 6, the date of UFC 229, which means he's technically able to return to the Octagon on July 6. It's possible we could see him return sooner; his Nurmagomedov can have his suspension reduced to six months if he participates in a local anti-bullying campaign.
Conor McGregor received a six-month suspension and was fined $50,000. He's eligible to return to the Octagon as early as April 6.
Nurmagomedov responded to the NSAC's rulings on social media.
Nurmagomedov and McGregor were just two of four fighters suspended for the post-fight melee, with Dillion Danis, McGregor's teammate and professional fighter for Bellator MMA, still awaiting his punishment. Nurmagomedov's cousin, PFL lightweight Abubakar Nurmagomedov, and teammate Zubaira Tukhugov each received a one-year suspension and $25,000 fine.
Nurmagomedov's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, criticized the NSAC's punishments and said Nurmagomedov has no interest in competing in the state of Nevada again.
"I don't think it's fair," Abdelaziz said of the fines. "Khabib gets $500K and Conor gets $50K? I think it's bulls---."
McGregor's manager, Audie A. Attar, had a much different response to the rulings, telling ESPN, "We are grateful tot he commission for their serious focus and the decision which will allow fans to see their favorite fighter return to the Octagon."