According to ESPN, the Nevada State Athletic Commission is going to file formal complaints against both Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor following the highly unprofessional but entertaining as hell shitshow that took place after their championship bout on Saturday night. This predictable development, of course, comes despite how the conversation has already shifted to talk of a rematch.
In fact, NSAC chairman Anthony Marnell confirmed to ESPN that they're conducting a full investigation into the post-fight melee, which includes extensive review of film, as well as interviews with those involved. As was already reported, the NSAC withheld Nurmagomedov's $2 million paycheck in anticipation of filing a complaint. They did pay McGregor the $3 million he was due, but they still plan to file a complaint against him after checking tape that wasn't seen by them on Saturday night.
"We will be filing against Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov," Marnell said. "Because we withheld one purse, we will have to move expeditiously to a complaint and hearing. We have held 100 percent of one of the fighter's money, so the goal is to get the complaints out in the next 24 to 48 hours."
Shortly after the brawl three individuals were arrested, but they were let go after McGregor declined to press charges. Despite that refusal by McGregor, Marnell says the commission is still looking to punish that trio.
"There are a lot of things here," he said. "There are a lot of charges that can be brought against a spectator who came over the barricade, through the commission section and into the Octagon to strike a fighter three times. For the record, I have a massive problem with that. That cannot happen.
"We're taking a really hard look at that gentleman. We know exactly who he is and where he is. I have to let the attorney general determine—is that trespassing, disturbing the peace? That was a serious action and it deserves a serious consequence."
Nurmagomedov had apologized publicly to the commission following the fight, though he still faces the threat of a fine and suspension. On top of that, Dana White also said that if Nurmagomedov is out for a substantial amount of time, then the UFC would contemplate taking his title belt.
Finally, Marnell said the commission's goal is to hold disciplinary hearings related to the fracas no later than late November. "This is a serious issue, this is not a light issue," he said. "This isn't, 'We smacked each other in the face in a hotel lobby the week of a fight.' This is the night of the event, and it needs to stay inside that field of combat. There are serious regulations and statutes about what took place, and the consequences have to match the actions."
Made for a good pay-per-view, though.
