BKFC chairman David Feldman and Conor McGregor teaming up isn't really on the 2024 bingo card, but that's what happened on Saturday.
During the broadcast of BKFC Knucklemania 4, Feldman announced to McGregor's video package that he had become co-owner of BKFC in conjunction with McGregor's Sports & Entertainment Promotions. Speaking to the media after the event at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, Feldman shared his reaction to the UFC's biggest star joining the fight.
“He became the owner of BKFC with us, and we're going to take this son of a bitch to the top,” Feldman said at the post-game press conference.
McGregor joined BKFC 41 in April 2023 and had a heated battle with promotional star Mike Perry following Perry's knockout win over Luke Rockhold. According to Feldman, negotiations began at that time to bring McGregor on board as an executive.
“He came to our event – it will be a year in two days [ago] — in Denver,” Feldman explained. “He jumped in the ring, called out Mike Perry for fun, and one thing led to another. We partnered with his beer, Irish Stout, and they sponsored us. . He was hooked on this.
“We had an incredible conversation and were already exchanging great ideas. It's funny, I said to my wife, 'I was waiting for Conor McGregor to call me and now This guy won't stop calling me.'' can't believe it. But he's very excited about this. I really think it takes it to the next level. ”
McGregor is preparing to face Michael Chandler in the main event of UFC 303 on June 29th in Las Vegas. The fight will be the former UFC two-division champion's first since he suffered a nasty leg injury in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2016. July 2021.
As 'The Notorious' prepares to take another leap forward for the UFC with his long-awaited return, Feldman talks about UFC CEO Dana White and the news that McGregor will take on a promotional role in another fight. was asked how they would react. promotion.
“Listen, Dana White has a huge relationship with the UFC,” Feldman said. “Conor McGregor certainly moved the needle for them, but [White]Great success without [McGregor] — He’s not fighting for us. I'm just saying, is he promoting our product for us? who knows? You're probably a little angry. Your number one star is going to talk about another company, so he's probably not too happy about it. But he's not worried about us. ”
“Not yet,” Feldman added.