Conor McGregor’s Rant Against BKFC: Why the Promotion Should Listen to His Insights on Combat Sports Promotion

Austin Jones
Jun 30
4 min read

Conor McGregor’s Rant Against BKFC: Why the Promotion Should Listen to His Insights on Combat Sports Promotion

Conor McGregor has never been one to hold back, whether it’s inside the octagon or on social media. Recently, McGregor took to Instagram to vent his frustration over the treatment of fighters during Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) events, particularly the decision not to interview Conor Tierney after his title defense at BKFC 77. While McGregor’s recent controversies may cast doubt on his approach at times, when it comes to promoting in the combat sports world, he’s one of the best to ever do it. Here’s why BKFC—and any promotion—should take McGregor’s criticisms seriously.

The Outburst: McGregor’s Call for Fighter Respect

McGregor, who has been an active part-owner of BKFC since April 2024, voiced his displeasure over how Tierney was treated after his successful title defense. The event’s decision to skip a post-fight interview with the fighter left McGregor "livid," and he called it "absolutely ridiculous." His rant was filled with passion and disappointment over what he views as a lack of respect for the fighters who are the heart of any combat sports promotion.

While McGregor’s fiery temper is well-known, his words resonate with an underlying truth about the way fighters are treated. The post-fight spotlight should always shine on the winner, allowing them to celebrate their victory and connect with fans. Without proper promotion and acknowledgment, the fighters' moments of triumph can feel hollow, and the promotion misses an opportunity to build star power.

McGregor’s Eye for Fighter Promotion

Despite the controversies that have surrounded him, McGregor’s ability to promote fighters and events is second to none. Few athletes in combat sports have been as successful at building a brand, creating demand, and making headlines like McGregor. His transition from UFC star to global brand is a blueprint that every promotion—whether it’s UFC, BKFC, or even Bellator—could learn from.

McGregor’s influence in the sport is not just due to his skills in the ring but also his ability to make any fight an event. He knows that promoting a fight isn't just about creating hype—it’s about respecting the athletes who put their bodies on the line. When McGregor speaks about how fighters should be treated, he's speaking from experience, having built his own career on strategic, high-impact promotions that have made millions.

A Lesson in Respect for Fighters

McGregor’s insights into fighter promotion aren't limited to the spotlight of the UFC. He understands the need to respect athletes both during the fight and after it. Every fighter, whether they are in the main event or on the undercard, deserves recognition for the work they put in leading up to the event. And when that recognition is withheld, as in the case of Conor Tierney’s post-fight non-interview, it can create resentment.

In many ways, McGregor is calling for a culture change in BKFC. The promotion has great potential, but it can only grow by respecting its fighters, highlighting their achievements, and using them as the central figure in promotions. Fighters should be treated like the stars they are because, without them, there is no show.

McGregor’s Impact on BKFC and Beyond

Since becoming a part-owner of BKFC, McGregor has been involved in the promotion’s growth, attending events, promoting on social media, and even participating in press conferences. He knows what works—and what doesn’t. His past experiences, including negotiating deals and building hype for his own fights, make him uniquely qualified to give advice to BKFC and other promotions.

While McGregor’s recent controversies, including his legal troubles and social media outbursts, may cast a shadow over his reputation in some circles, it’s important to remember that his success in combat sports promotion cannot be denied. His ability to generate interest in fights is unparalleled, and this is an area where BKFC—and any other promotion—can learn a lot from him.

The Future of Combat Sports Promotion

The world of combat sports is ever-changing, and promoters need to adapt to the needs of both the fighters and the fans. McGregor’s rant about BKFC’s treatment of fighters highlights a key issue in combat sports: the need for better promotion and respect for the athletes. If BKFC wants to continue growing and expanding its audience, it must start by listening to McGregor and others who understand the intricacies of promotion.

Fighters are the lifeblood of any promotion, and if they feel disrespected or overlooked, it can harm the entire organization. McGregor’s call for greater fighter recognition is a message every promotion should take seriously. After all, if anyone knows how to make a fight—and a fighter—into a global sensation, it’s Conor McGregor.

The Importance of Listening to McGregor

Regardless of McGregor’s personal controversies, his expertise in promoting fighters and events in the combat sports world is undeniable. His words about the treatment of fighters in BKFC are not just a rant; they are a call to action for all promotions to recognize and respect their athletes. BKFC, and other organizations in combat sports, would be wise to listen to McGregor. After all, when it comes to making fighters into stars and turning events into global spectacles, McGregor knows exactly what he’s talking about.