Conor McGregor Belatedly Releases Statement In Response To Bellator Controversy

Conor McGregor once again found himself at the centre of controversy last Friday night, as he entered the octagon and confronted referee Marc Goddard during Charlie Ward's fight at Bellator 187.

McGregor has been silent on the matter up to today, with the exception of a tweet sent - and deleted - yesterday that read "Bloke KO'd on floor bout a minute straight and ref trying to say fights not over Conor. That's when I lost it. Fuck yous all".

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This evening, McGregor released a lengthy apology on Instagram, accompanied by a selfie with a butter-wouldn't-melt smile. Here's the statement in full:

I sincerely apologize for my behavior at last weekends fight event in Dublin. While trying to support a loyal teammate and friend, I let my emotions get the best of me and acted out of line. As a multiple weight UFC champion, executive producer, role model and public figure, I must hold myself to a higher standard.

The referee Marc Gonard [sic] was making a horrendous decision in trying to pick an unconscious fighter up off the floor and force the fight to continue into the second round. Even against the wishes of the said fighters coach. The fight was over.
After witnessing my fighter in a fight where the worst happened and the opponent passed away from his injuries on the night, I thought the worst was about to happen again, and I lost it and over reacted. I am sorry to everyone.

I sincerely apologize to the Director of the Mohegan Tribe Department of Athletic Regulation, Mike Mazzulli, all the officials and staff working the event, Andy Ryan and his fighter John, two stonch ones that put up a great fight every time. That side will always have my respect, and lastly every one of my fans. I love yous all!

I’ve always learned from my mistakes and this will be no different.

Whether or not McGregor faces any punishment for his actions remains to be seen. Speaking to Ariel Helwani last night, Mike Mazzulli (president of the ABC and the chief regulator at Friday's event in Dublin) claimed that the UFC have cut McGregor from a planned fight on December 30th, and may take yet more action against their fighter.

They have precedence for doing so: fighter Jason High was cut by the organisation in 2014 for shoving a referee in frustration during a defeat to Rafael Dos Anjos.