After securing a victory on the main card at UFC 229, Derrick Lewis reflected on what he would have done if he were in the controversial headlining position held by Conor McGregor. Known for his highlight-reel finishes and holding the record for the most knockouts in UFC history, Lewis’s dramatic knockout win over Alexander Volkov in the final moments of their fight was overshadowed by Khabib Nurmagomedov’s dominant win against McGregor and the ensuing post-fight chaos at the T-Mobile Arena in October 2018.
In a TMZ Sports interview, Lewis revealed that if he were in McGregor’s shoes, he would have chosen to step back and enjoy the financial rewards he had already earned, suggesting McGregor should consider retirement after making life-changing money. Lewis emphasized that unlike McGregor, who has already amassed substantial wealth, he fights primarily to support his family and only views the sport as work. He stated, “If I’ve ever received a $50 million check, I’d cut off my family, everyone, and maybe even divorced,” underscoring how differently he approaches the sport compared to McGregor.
McGregor, who has fought only three times in seven years with two recent losses and a severe leg injury suffered in 2021, has not competed since. He is set for a comeback fight against Michael Chandler in the summer of 2024. Meanwhile, Lewis, gearing up for his main event debut in Nashville, reflects on the divergent paths their careers have taken since that infamous UFC 229 night.
Fan Take: This story highlights a crucial crossroads for fighters balancing financial success and career longevity. For fans, it sparks an important conversation about the pressures fighters face and the tough decisions between chasing glory or securing their future—both of which shape the evolution of MMA.
