Conor McGregor Says He's Nowhere Near Muhammad Ali's Greatness After Comparisons

Conor McGregor isn't particularly known for his humble nature, but when put side-by-side with one of boxing's greats, Muhammad Ali, he isn't keen on the comparison.

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In the lead up his fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov, this evening in Las Vagas, McGregor was inundated with praise from the UFC president, Dana White.

White not only complimented his use of 'mental warfare' against his opponents, but also compared the former two-division champion to the late heavyweight champ Muhammad Ali.

After the UFC pre-fight press conference in New York, White said: "Conor McGregor is the master of mental warfare.

"I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think he's better than anybody, even Muhammad Ali."

We know McGregor wouldn't usually shy away from compliments, but it seems he feels he doesn't stand in the same league as Ali.

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McGregor says he respects the comparison but he's 'not even close' to Ali.

He said: "What he says about Muhammad Ali and the mental warfare, I respect that, and I appreciate that, but Muhammad Ali is a special, special individual.

"I am not even close to that man's greatness. The things he done throughout his career, he's a special individual and to even have my name next to that man is truly a proud moment for me.

"So, thank you all, but I cannot compare myself to that great man."

With humility not being among McGregor's more celebrated traits, it would be interesting to know how the constant contrast between the two champions might affect McGregor's confidence in his upcoming fight.

Muhammad Ali is considered one of the most significant and celebrated sporting figures of the 20th century - especially known for his trilogy of fights against Joe Frazier, which climaxed in the infamous 'Thrilla in Manila' back in 1975.

McGregor's fight with Khabib is set to be one of the biggest fights in MMA history - with McGregor promising a 'devastating KO'.

During their weigh-in the two fighters had to be pulled apart after McGregor sent a fierce kick towards his opponent.

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White may have been right about one thing - McGregor can sell tickets and get his adversary riled up enough to set the stage for truly hotly-anticipated clash.

The stage is set, the fighters are ready... it's just time to wait for the two to get down to business in the ring.

Topics: SPORT, Conor Mcgregor, News, Boxing, muhammad ali, UFC, MMA

Rachael Grealish

Rachael is a NCTJ qualified journalist from West Cumbria, with a passion for news, features and journalism. Outside of work Rachael loves plenty of coffee, running and reading.

@RachaelGrealish