Paul Hughes, an Irish fighter who once admired Conor McGregor, has dismissed McGregor’s recent disrespectful comments questioning his Irish identity and criticizing his respect for the Nurmagomedov family, attributing them to McGregor’s changed demeanor and focusing instead on maintaining professionalism and mutual respect in his sport.
Like many Irish fighters, Paul Hughes grew up idolizing Conor McGregor. McGregor’s rise to fame brought significant attention to Ireland, making him arguably the biggest name in combat sports.
However, McGregor’s reputation has shifted. Nowadays, he’s more known for his outspoken nature during interviews and on social media than his performances in the octagon. His last fight was back in July 2021 against Dustin Poirier, where he suffered a nasty leg injury.
Recently, McGregor targeted Hughes in a Twitter rant. The PFL standout had shown respect to Usman Nurmagomedov and his coach Khabib after an intense five-round match—one of the year’s best fights.
McGregor criticized Hughes for his comments post-fight and questioned his Irish identity due to Hughes being from Northern Ireland. This area has a complex history, often marked by conflict.
“It was an extreme viewpoint,” Hughes commented on McGregor’s words. “Unbelievably disrespectful.”
For Hughes, questioning someone’s Irishness because of geography is deeply offensive. He proudly represents Ireland, carrying its flag into every fight.
In now-deleted tweets, McGregor harshly told Hughes, “Get that flag off you,” followed by a derogatory remark.
Despite this, Hughes isn’t overly bothered by McGregor’s comments. He acknowledges that McGregor isn’t the same person he once admired.
“I didn’t take it personally,” Hughes stated. “It’s not the Conor we knew. I just shrug it off.”
Hughes hopes McGregor finds his way back but remains unfazed by the current situation. He wishes him well regardless.
Much of McGregor’s anger seemed linked to Hughes’ respect for the Nurmagomedovs—a family McGregor has clashed with since his 2018 loss to Khabib.
Hughes made it clear he’s not part of that feud. “I’m my own man,” he asserted after the fight.
McGregor continues to taunt Khabib despite the latter’s retirement with an undefeated record. Yet, Hughes doesn’t see himself caught in their rivalry.
Hughes emphasized mutual respect after his bout with Usman Nurmagomedov. They fought hard, sold out the venue, and left on good terms—as martial arts should be.
He understands marketing narratives but insists there’s no need for personal animosity. For him, it’s purely competition.
Regardless of McGregor’s disapproval of his sportsmanship towards the Nurmagomedovs, Hughes remains steadfast in his approach.
He’s eager for a rematch with Usman but keeps it professional, letting McGregor’s words be just that—his own words.
“There’s mutual respect,” Hughes concluded. “Anyone who steps into that cage deserves it.”