“I’d Like to Shut Conor’s Mouth, But Khabib Is a Role Model” — Manny Pacquiao Shows Big Respect for Nurmagomedov

Boxing icon Manny Pacquiao has once again proven that class and humility define true champions. In a recent interview that’s gone viral across the combat sports world, the eight-division world champion spoke candidly about UFC legends Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov — and his words left fans nodding in agreement.

When asked which MMA superstar he’d prefer to fight, Pacquiao didn’t hold back:

“Fight McGregor or Khabib? I’d like to shut Conor’s mouth,” he said with a grin. “But Khabib is a role model. I respect him — not only as a fighter but as a person.”

The quote immediately set social media ablaze. For many, it encapsulated the difference between the sport’s loudest showmen and its most disciplined athletes — and reflected Pacquiao’s lifelong belief that greatness comes not just from fists, but from character.

A Legend’s Perspective

At 45, Manny Pacquiao has earned the right to speak as both a warrior and a statesman of combat sports. With 72 professional fights, 12 world titles, and a career spanning more than two decades, he is the only boxer in history to win championships in eight different weight divisions.

But beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Pacquiao has always been admired for his humility, respect, and sportsmanship — traits that align perfectly with Khabib Nurmagomedov’s values.

“I see Khabib as a true champion,” Pacquiao explained. “He stayed disciplined, he honored his family, and he knew when to walk away. That’s something rare in sports — especially now.”

Pacquiao’s comments refer to Khabib’s emotional retirement in 2020 after defending his lightweight title against Justin Gaethje. The undefeated Russian fighter retired with a 29-0 record, fulfilling a promise to his late father that he would never fight again after his passing.

That act of integrity struck a chord with Pacquiao. Both men share a deep faith, strong family ties, and a sense of purpose that transcends competition.

“You don’t need to fight forever to prove who you are,” Pacquiao said. “Sometimes, walking away at the right time is the most powerful thing you can do.”

The McGregor Factor

Of course, the moment Pacquiao mentioned Conor McGregor, headlines lit up. The Filipino legend and the Irish star have been connected for years through rumors of a potential crossover fight — one that nearly came to fruition in 2020 when Pacquiao briefly signed with McGregor’s management team, Paradigm Sports.

That bout never materialized, but the tension lingered. McGregor, known for his sharp tongue and trash-talking antics, has taken jabs at both Pacquiao and Khabib on social media over the years.

Pacquiao, however, made it clear that he doesn’t see McGregor as an enemy — just as a man who could use a little humility.

“Conor is talented. He’s got skill and a big heart,” Pacquiao said. “But sometimes he talks too much. You can be confident without disrespecting people.”

It’s a statement that reflects the clash of eras and ethics between fighters like McGregor — who thrive on spectacle — and legends like Pacquiao and Khabib, who built their legacies through quiet dominance.

And for Pacquiao, the difference is personal. “You earn respect through your actions, not your words,” he said. “That’s why I admire Khabib more.”

A Meeting of Minds: Pacquiao and Khabib

Interestingly, Pacquiao and Khabib have crossed paths before. In 2021, they met briefly in Dubai at a sports summit, where they exchanged warm greetings and posed for photos. Khabib later posted the moment on Instagram with the caption: “A true champion and humble man — great to meet you, legend.”

That mutual admiration has endured. Both athletes have publicly spoken about their respect for each other’s careers, faith, and community work.

Khabib, a devout Muslim from Dagestan, and Pacquiao, a born-again Christian from the Philippines, come from very different worlds — yet both have used their success to promote discipline, compassion, and giving back.

“I believe fighters should inspire people, not just entertain them,” Pacquiao said. “Khabib did that. He showed the world that you can be strong, but still kind. That’s real power.”

Fans React: “Two Kings, One Spirit”

The internet’s reaction to Pacquiao’s comments has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans from both boxing and MMA flooded social media with messages of admiration.

One X (formerly Twitter) user wrote:

“Manny Pacquiao calling Khabib a role model — that’s respect from a legend to a legend. Two kings, one spirit.”

Another fan added:

“Pacquiao doesn’t need to fight Khabib — they’re both already champions of character.”

However, not everyone agreed. Some McGregor supporters fired back, saying Pacquiao’s comments were “shading Conor” unnecessarily. But even McGregor’s fiercest fans admitted the Filipino icon’s words carried weight.

“You can’t hate Manny,” one post read. “He’s earned the right to speak his mind — and he’s not wrong about Conor’s mouth.”

Legacy Meets Legacy

Both Pacquiao and Khabib now live quieter lives away from the chaos of competition. Pacquiao has transitioned into politics and philanthropy, continuing to serve the people of the Philippines while mentoring young boxers.

Khabib, meanwhile, has focused on coaching and building Eagle FC, a growing MMA promotion that champions young talent and discipline over drama.

Their parallel paths show how true greatness evolves — from fighting inside the arena to uplifting others outside it.

“Champions are not made by belts,” Pacquiao said. “They’re made by what they give back.”

That philosophy echoes Khabib’s own famous quote: “Money and fame come and go, but honor stays forever.”

It’s perhaps why fans continue to hold both men in such high regard — they embody an old-school spirit of respect in a world that too often rewards arrogance.

The Fight That Will Never Happen — and Doesn’t Need To

As speculation swirled online about a potential Pacquiao vs. Khabib exhibition — an idea floated by fans for years — both men have gently dismissed it.

Khabib, who retired with his undefeated record intact, has repeatedly stated he will “never fight again.” Pacquiao, though open to exhibitions for charity, said such a match would be “a beautiful dream — but unnecessary.”

“We don’t need to fight to show respect,” he said. “Some things are better left as admiration between men who’ve given their lives to the sport.”

That, perhaps, is what separates Manny Pacquiao from the rest. In an age where controversy sells more than character, he continues to choose respect over rivalry — and honor over hype.

As one fan perfectly put it:

“Pacquiao wants to shut Conor’s mouth, but he’d rather follow Khabib’s example. That says everything about who he is — a true fighter, and an even truer man.”