Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) witnessed one of its worst days in promotional history earlier today (Thurs. April 5, 2018) after Conor McGregor and his crew attacked a van carrying a group of fighters shortly after UFC 223 media day.
As a result of the senseless act of violence, many innocent victims suffered injuries, including Michael Chiesa and Ray Borg who will no longer be able to compete at this weekend’s (Sat., April 7, 2018) pay-per-view (PPV) event.
UFC has issued an official statement on the madness.
“During today’s media event at Barclays Center to promote UFC 223: Khabib vs. Holloway, Conor McGregor and Artem Lobov entered the building accompanied by over a dozen individuals. The group, which included McGregor and Lobov, vandalized the vehicle that contained a number of athletes competing at the event taking place this weekend. NYPD was immediately alerted and is currently in the process of investigating the situation. UFC is working very closely with the New York Athletic Commission, Barclays Center security and law enforcement authorities. All parties are working together to ensure the highest standard of proper safety precautions are implemented to protect the fans and athletes. The organization deems today’s disruption completely unacceptable and is currently working on the consequences that will follow. Immediately, Lobov has been removed from this weekend’s card and individuals involved in the incident are not welcome at tomorrow’s ceremonial weigh-in or Saturday’s event at Barclays Center.”
As for UFC president Dana White, he was understandably upset at Conor’s actions, and gave the impression he was no longer interested in being in the “Notorious” business.
Furthermore, a couple of UFC employees were injuring during the attack, which includes UFC Vice President of Athlete Development Reed Harris and an exec who suffered a broken arm.
As of this posting, Conor McGregor is still on the lam.