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via Imago

via Imago

Conor McGregor is no stranger to controversies. Not to mention, his fame backfires when he is involved in the slightest of issues which get blown out of proportion. Nevertheless, for the most part, he remains a fan-favorite fighter. In a recent interview, UFC 297 headliner Dricus du Plessis, weighed in on the same as he discussed his own recent fame.

The South African has had a meteoric rise in the UFC over the last year or so. But with this rise, comes great scrutiny, and with scrutiny comes distinct opinions and criticism. After his first-hand experience of being a star, he empathizes with the biggest superstar of his promotion. Why? Let’s find out.

Conor McGregor: A bad role model or just highly scrutinized?

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According to the middleweight fighter, he wants to be a role model. However, there might be certain circumstances in which he may not act like one. But nobody is going to cut him any slack because he is a massive star and cameras follow everywhere he goes. Does that mean he is a terrible person? In an interview, he revealed many people involve themselves in questionable acts. However, by not being a celebrity, one manages to not get crucified for it.

While citing McGregor as an example, he stated, “I look at a guy like Conor. He gets seen doing so many wrong things. But because it is just everything he does get filmed. I feel sorry for the guy because most of the things we do are not right. Especially when we are out partying. Considering being an example to kids when you are out partying” He added, “You get filmed and it is all over the internet and people judge you for it.”

Du Plessis does make a valid point. McGregor was on the receiving end of some serious criticism when he shared partying clips from his visit to the Monaco Grand Prix last year. Fans were angry at the Irish star for not taking his return seriously and not committing to it.

Du Plessis’ opinion is shared by not just athletes of the sport but also by celebrities from all walks of life. However, someone like McGregor continues to be critiqued and tagged as a horrible person. But is he? Let’s ask Mike Tyson.

Mike Tyson on “beautiful” Conor McGregor

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McGregor is outspoken, confident, and, to an extent, pompous of his lifestyle. But his beauty may not cross your mind. Well, then, allow Mike Tyson, former boxing heavyweight champion to make his case. According to ‘Iron Mike,’ McGregor and his questionable actions are a tactic to sell fights and be in the headlines. However, in reality, he is a lovely person. He states, “He’s crazy. He’s both a gimmick. In real life, he’s a beautiful guy, you know? Yeah but you have to have a gimmick.” 

Watch This Story: Best Conor McGregor TUF moments

Tyson and McGregor share a profound respect for each other. McGregor was vocally supportive of the icon when he decided to return to boxing against Roy Jones Jr. Similarly, Tyson was highly appreciative of McGregor’s performance against Floyd Mayweather in their 2017 crossover bout.

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Tyson’s insights into McGregor are unique. While people have distinct opinions, we are interested to know, what do you think of the biggest star of the sport? Share with us your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.

Read more: Mother of His Children, Dee Devlin, Responds As Conor McGregor Sits His 1-Year-Old Down To Watch MMA Video