During an intense build-up to his crossover fight with Floyd Mayweather in 2017 McGregor made a series of crass comments about Espinoza, with reports swirling that he was made to apologise this year
Showtime Boxing boss Stephen Espinoza claims Conor McGregor made an awkward apology after branding him a “weasel” during their 2017 press tour to promote his fight with Floyd Mayweather.
The UFC legend was two-weight world champion at the time when he switched the octagon for the ring to take on a one-time super fight against Mayweather. As part of promotion for the event, both sides travelled the world for a series of press conferences in front of capacity crowds, taking in Los Angeles, Toronto, Brooklyn and London.
McGregor launched scathing verbal attacks on Mayweather at all four stops, but felt his microphone had been cut at opportune times to benefit his rival during their first press conference. As a result, he took aim at Espinoza, whose outlet was broadcasting the event and as such was on stage; on his rival’s side.
For years the relationship remained icy, until word emerged that the Irishman was forced to apologise to Espinoza in order to gain access to Ryan Garcia and Gervonta Davis’ fight in Las Vegas this year. His long-time rival Paulie Malignaggi was first to reveal the story, before Espinoza referenced it during an interview with Boxing News.