CON AIR
UFC Conor McGregor has threatened to "f***ing butcher" Justin Gaethje and branded Khabib Nurmagomedov a "scurrying rat" in a series of X-rated social media posts.
The two-weight champ pulled no punches as he hit out at his rivals on Twitter.
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Tony Ferguson and Dustin Poirier were also in the Irishman's crosshairs as he talked up his chances against Gaethje and tried once again to provoke Russian rival Khabib.
The Irishman wrote: "The fans make the sport! Watching the other night I was against going in without them.
"But it will be my f***ing pleasure to display the power I possess with zero background noise for them.
"It's me and Justin next as Khabib is the biggest bottle fighter in the game. Guarantee it."
Gaethje beat Ferguson on Saturday night in front of zero fans, ending one of the most impressive winning streaks in UFC history.
Ferguson had been slated to fight Khabib, before coronavirus travel restrictions meant the Dagestani could not fight.
Gaethje stepped in and was brilliant in the win, putting himself firmly in contention for big-money and title fights.
After defeat, Ferguson's future is unclear - a fight between him and Khabib had been mooted for years but now seems dead in the water.
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"I love Tony... But frame and preparation here was just embarrassing.
"His methods and conversation are humorous/enjoyable but he was never the level perceived. Although tough.
"It is Dustin/Tony next when Tony heals. If he does.
"Dustin will beat him also if changes are not made. Which they won’t.
"Dustin, although game, and in the mix, will be fed to the floor again.
"Couple wins here/there then folded in half. Rinse and repeat - Dustin career."
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Gaehtje is now being talked up as a possible opponent for McGregor, if the Irishman does not get the rematch against bitter rival Khabib.
The Irishman clearly does not fear the American - and is clearly furious with comments Gaethje has previously made about his "s***" parenting.
"Justin, there is no danger in a man that hugs legs, we all know," added McGregor, "Try and dance around what the real threat is here all you want.
"I am going to f***ing butcher you. Your teeth. I’m going to put them on a f***ing necklace. Speak on my skills as a father? You are f***ing dead.
"You are a f***ing blind fool, and I am going to finish the job."
McGregor saved his final salvo for Khabib, who maintains he will never rematch the Notorious after the drama and vitriol of their first meeting.
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"Khabib you absolute embarrassment. Scurrying, hiding rat as usual. As I have said many times. As has been seen many times.
"Through the pane of glass it was confirmed what was always known. 'No comment' lol.
"An embarrassment to real fighting.
"After this division demolition job. It is 170lbs."