Conor McGregor has responded to accusations of racism by saying that can’t be racist as he is “half-black from the bellybutton down.”
McGregor drew criticisms after repeatedly asking upcoming opponent Floyd Mayweather Jr. to “dance for me, boy.” Though many pointed out that McGregor had frequently referred to his opponents as “boy” throughout his career regardless of his skin colour, and Floyd Mayweather Sr. even defended his son’s rival, McGregor decided to address the allegations in the New York leg of the ongoing Mayweather vs. McGregor press tour.
Speaking on stage at the Barclays Center, McGregor said: “All of the media seem to be saying that I am against black people, but do they not know that I am half black? I’m half-black from the bellybutton down.”
He continued: “And just to show them that it is squashed, here is a present for my beautiful, black female fans.” He then began thrusting the air.
Image Credit: Gene Belvins / Getty Images
McGregor elaborated on his thoughts regarding the reaction to his comments in a later news conference. When asked what he thought about the accusations of racism, he replied: “That doesn’t sit well with me. I am a very multi-cultured individual. I do not have any ill feeling toward anyone. I do not even see colour.
“I just wanted to say something that I could have a little fun with. I just wanted to play with it and address it in my own little way. It’s stupid and it’s ridiculous, that’s basically what I was getting at.”
McGregor and Mayweather are now approaching the final day of their press tour, which has been held in order to promote their upcoming boxing match. The fight is set to take place on August 26 in the Las Vegas T-Mobile Arena.
