Conor McGregor brands Justin Gaethje ’embarrassing’ in now-deleted tweet as UFC rival calls him out after Khabib loss
JUSTIN GAETHJE called out Conor McGregor for a lightweight title showdown after his loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Also reminding him of his defeat to Dustin Poirier in 2018, McGregor wrote: “Dustin KO’d you, as well as your wrestling/grappling and overall fear of the central positions being truly embarrassing tonight, Justin.”
McGregor has been locked in talks for a return to the Octagon on January 23 against Poirier although no official contracts have been signed.
His tweet has since been deleted but Gaethje wasted no time in responding to the outspoken Irishman with the lightweight belt now vacant following Khabib’s retirement.
Gaethje said: “With him retiring, I’m No 1.
“Poirier and McGregor are going to fight. They haven’t made it official, so if McGregor wants to bounce out and get the belt, then I’m right here.
“If they want to give it to someone else, then so be it.
“But I’ll be ready. I’m ready to fight again. This is my job. This is my life. I love it so much.”
McGregor, who has retired three times, last fought Donald Cerrone in January.
The Crumlin superstar beat Poirier in 2014 and eventually won the lightweight title two years later when he knocked out Eddie Alvarez.
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Confirming his interest in a rematch with Poirier, he said: “I accept, Jan 23rd is on.
“My goal is to see the fight take place in Cowboy stadium. Proper Style!
“Jerry Jones is a friend and the stadium can hold our crowd. I will be ready for Texas and Texas will be ready for my fans.”