‘Superstar’… Conor McGregor brands UFC-linked KO artist ‘the next big thing’

Being called a superstar by Conor McGregor is one of the biggest compliments an MMA fighter can receive, considering the mark he has left in the sport.

Despite how his UFC career has gone towards the end, Conor McGregor will always be remembered as being the biggest star the world of MMA has ever seen.

Although he still has fights on his contract, McGregor recently dropped a massive retirement hint, stating that he is happy with everything he has done in the sport and will instead shift his focus to the Irish Presidential election.

Even though the Irishman hasn’t fought since 2021, he is still heavily involved in the fight game and continues to play a big part in the growth of BKFC.

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Conor McGregor labels Dakota Ditcheva ‘the next big thing’

This past Friday, the promotion landed in Dubai for the first time ahead of their two-day event in the Middle East.

Of course, McGregor was in attendance watching as two title fights topped the card, which also included a debut appearance from a UFC veteran.

Aleksei Olenik made his debut under the BKFC banner and was brutally left unconscious after his opponent landed a huge punch, sinking him to the ground.

Also in attendance at the event was PFL star Dakota Ditcheva. The Brit rose to superstar status last year when she won the PFL’s women’s flyweight tournament, taking home $1m.

Ditcheva has a superstar aura, and MMA fans have continuously called for the UFC to sign her, especially after she was recently in attendance at UFC London.

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During the event, Ditcheva and McGregor met for the very first time, and their interaction was caught on camera.

“Dakota, a superstar, what’s up sweetheart,” McGregor said as he and Ditcheva embraced.

“You’re the next big thing, baby. Great to see you. You’re a strong woman, good girl. F—— awesome, great to see you, great to finally meet you. What’s the crack? What do you have up next?” McGregor asked.

“I don’t know. PFL are working on something for me,” Ditcheva responded.

“PFL are working on something for you? Ash! Superstar right here, 100%. Dakota, great to see you, sweetheart,” McGregor continued.

The 26-year-old hasn’t fought since her career-best performance over former UFC title challenger Taila Santos last November.

Ditcheva won’t be competing in the 2025 women’s flyweight tournament and will instead only be able to compete on the PFL’s super-fight events, leaving her inactive.

McGregor’s security leave fan bloodied after attempted attack

Unfortunately, though, the night wasn’t full of positive festivities as later in the night, a fan allegedly attempted to attack McGregor as he made his way into the crowd to embrace with fans.

A video that surfaced on social media showed the Irishman’s security team getting involved in a melee with a fan, throwing a punch and leaving him dripping with blood.

The former UFC double champion will be hoping that night two of the event this Saturday doesn’t involve more of the same as two more titles are competed for at the Dubai Tennis Stadium.

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