As the saying goes, greatness knows greatness. Former Los Angeles Lakers superstar Kobe Bryant was in attendance during the build-up for UFC 217 that was held on Saturday at Madison Square Garden. He was asked by TMZ Sports, to give his thoughts about two division world champion Connor McGregor, and he did not hold back in giving his high praise for him.

Bryant gave a lot of credit to McGregor's temperament and style, which he believes will take his career to a higher level. He even said he thinks he's “an animal” and that he is a genius for how he fights inside the octagon.

“Connor's an animal… I love everything about Connor.”

Like Bryant, McGregor has shown a lot of dedication to his craft, which has made him one of the best, if not the best mixed martial arts fighter in the world today. Despite losing to Floyd Mayweather Jr., a few months ago in the boxing ring, he still made a good account of himself and lasted almost the entire match against the undefeated boxer and all-time great.

The five-time NBA champion's comments go to show that even with his stature, he still knows how to appreciate other athletes from different sports. He is not shy to give credit where it's due, which will definitely make McGregor proud, as it's from one of the best basketball players to ever play the game.