Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor was ready to give his uncensored thoughts on a recent discussion regarding Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev, who has reigned supreme over the lightweight division since his title-winning victory over Charles Oliveira in 2022, is set to make his first appearance of the year this weekend.
In the main event of the UFC 302 pay-per-view in Newark, New Jersey, the Dagestani will put his belt on the line for the third time. After back-to-back defenses against Alexander Volkanovski, Dustin Poirier is next in line for a shot at dethroning Makhachev.
Given McGregor's in-cage history with Poirier and hostile relationship with Makhachev's team owing to his bitter rivalry with Khabib Nurmagomedov, it was always likely that the Irishman would be piping up this week.
And courtesy of the champ's official fight week photos, the outspoken McGregor was handed a talking point...
McGregor Reaches Conclusion On Makhachev Photos
The release of Makhachev's photos in fight gear immediately drew concerns over a possible staph infection on his left leg.
Such a scenario would be déjà vu vu for Poirier, whose most recent opponent, Benoît Saint Denis, was on antibiotics to fight staph during UFC 299 fight week this past March.
McGregor followed his usual trend, taking to social media with a slew of verbal attacks directed at Makhachev, whom he branded a "scruffy c**t." He also called the champ "imbred," an insult he's frequently directed at his Dagestani rivals.
The Dubliner did, however, still predict a quick triumph for Makhachev come fight night.
"Staph again. This inbred lives with Staph," McGregor wrote. "This team is infested, make no mistake. Scruff balls. Whatever ya's are into, I suppose. He still subs Dustin in the 1st."
In a follow-up post, McGregor continued his tirade with a reminder on the importance of washing mats after training sessions.
"Yous absolute scruffy f**ks I'm sick of yous," McGregor added. "Wash your f**king self! Wash your clothes! Wash your mats! And do it f*cking everyday you scruffy c**nts
McGregor's upcoming return to action has led to some discussion about the rivalry between the Irishman and Khabib Nurmagomedov's team reopening.
Should Makhachev retain his grip on the lightweight crown this weekend and McGregor make a statement in his comeback fight opposite Chandler, many are predicting that the UFC will look to pair them opposite one another down the line.