Conor McGregor, the outspoken UFC star, went on a rant against Islam Makhachev after noticing what he suspected to be a staph infection on Makhachev’s leg, reported by Sportbible. This outburst came just days before Makhachev's UFC lightweight title defense against Dustin Poirier at UFC 302.

Makhachev, who is set to defend his title in the main event of UFC 302 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, was photographed alongside his opponent Dustin Poirier. McGregor, known for his fiery personality, took to social media to criticize Makhachev upon seeing the images.

What Conor McGregor said

Spotting what he believed to be a staph infection on Makhachev's leg, McGregor launched into a tirade on Twitter. In a now-deleted tweet, McGregor wrote, “Staph again. This inbred however lives with Staph. This team is infested, make no mistake. Scruff balls. Whatever ya’s are into, I suppose. He still subs Dustin in the 1st.”

He didn’t stop there. In another tweet, also deleted, McGregor continued his attack: “Yous absolute scruffy fks I’m sick of yous. Wash your fking self! Wash your clothes! Wash your mats! And do it f**king everyday you scruffy c*nts.”

McGregor’s rant raised eyebrows as it came at a time when he had previously backed Poirier to win against Makhachev. Despite his aggressive comments about Makhachev's health and hygiene, McGregor seems to have shifted his stance on the upcoming fight.

In an earlier interview, McGregor predicted a knockout victory for Poirier, highlighting what he perceived as weaknesses in Islam Makhachev's game. He pointed out Makhachev's tendency to fumble and fall into shots early in fights. “I think Dustin can do him,” McGregor said. “I think Dustin does him, knocks him out. The things that Makhachev does wrong, the things he’s not good at? He fumbles over his feet, usually early on and falls into shots. He’s been knocked out by that back check hook from a southpaw before inside the UFC.”

McGregor emphasized Poirier's strengths, particularly his back check hook, which he believes could be decisive in the fight. However, McGregor acknowledged that both fighters have strengths and weaknesses that could influence the outcome, suggesting that the fight is unpredictable.

Conor McGregor's comeback

Conor McGregor speaks to press on the red carpet before the premiere of Road House at the Paramount Theatre in Austin
Sara Diggins/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK

As McGregor’s tweets stir controversy, the former UFC champion is preparing for his own return to the Octagon. McGregor is set to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29. This fight marks McGregor's first appearance since recovering from a serious leg injury.

A victory against Chandler could position McGregor for a title shot against the winner of Makhachev vs. Poirier. This potential matchup adds an extra layer of intrigue to McGregor's comments and the upcoming lightweight title bout at UFC 302.

Makhachev and Poirier are both focused on their title clash, with Makhachev aiming to defend his belt and Poirier looking to add another significant victory to his record. Despite McGregor’s criticism, Makhachev remains a formidable opponent, known for his grappling and submission skills.

For McGregor, the path forward is clear. A successful comeback against Chandler would not only reignite his career but also set the stage for a high-stakes showdown with either Makhachev or Poirier. McGregor’s ability to generate headlines, both inside and outside the Octagon, ensures that all eyes will be on him as he makes his return.

In the meantime, fans await the outcome of UFC 302, where the lightweight title is on the line and where Islam Makhachev will have a chance to prove his critics, including McGregor, wrong.