You could argue that the UFC’s reputation is on the line later tonight when Conor McGregor makes a switch from the Octagon to a boxing ring to take on Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Despite not being involved in promoting the fight, nobody has wasted an opportunity in claiming that the Notorious is the biggest star the UFC has to offer.

SUPER FIGHT

It’s clear, if the Irishman pulls out with a knockout victory – as he’s predicted – then it reflects wonderfully on the organisation as they came through and did what they always said they would; dent Money’s impeccable professional record.

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On the other hand, a convincing win for the unbeaten American where he could school the UFC lightweight champion will probably not look too good for the UFC, so McGregor might be heading into the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada representing mixed martial artists all over the world.

Unless you’re former UFC heavyweight champion Fabricio Werdum, then that notion doesn’t apply to you.

The Brazilian has never hidden his disdain of McGregor since he broke through, claiming he respects nobody and if he did respect others, then every single MMA fighter would have his back heading into the money fight.

RESPECT

Speaking to MMA Fighting, Vai Cavalo said: “I don’t think he represents MMA. I don’t think he represents me, and many fighters think like that because [McGregor] doesn’t respect other fighters.

"That’s the only reason. If he respected fighters more, every MMA fighter would have his back.

"Fans love McGregor, but 11 out of 10 fighters will say they don’t like him because he respects nobody. I’d be 100 percent on his side if he respected others, but he only cares about himself.

"I want Mayweather to win to show him that boxing is different. If it was the opposite, a boxer fighting MMA, I’d root for MMA. That’s why I’m rooting for boxing.

"[McGregor] is really smart, does good business and will make millions. He has created this character and I see some people try to be like him, but you have to be yourself.

“It’s ugly when a fighter changes the way he is and tries to be like somebody else. [McGregor] was always like this, controversial, the things he does, and selling a lot. He’s smart, but he doesn’t have my support."

The 40-year-old has taken to Instagram before to poke fun at McGregor, but admitted he does have a chance of pulling out with an upset – as every fighter does.

However, Werdum won’t be budging from his stance. He dislikes Mayweather, and hopes the UFC star will lose against Mayweather on Saturday night.

What do you make of Fabricio Werdum’s remarks on Conor McGregor? Have YOUR say in the comments section below.

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