We’re almost there. UFC 229 is nearing and once it arrives we’ll finally get the answer as to who is the lightweight division’s best.

In the main event, we have the highly anticipated title bout that pits the champion of 155-pounds, Khabib Nurmagomedov against Conor McGregor.

There has been plenty of build-up to this point and today we got a little more at the final pre-fight press conference.

On an unrelated note to the fight, McGregor made it clear to show some respect to his employer, UFC president Dana White as he among others recently compared McGregor to likes of Muhammad Ali with his mental warfare and greatness.

“Thank you so much, Dana. I appreciate the kind words. I also have nothing but good things to say about you. You’re an OG (original gangster) of the fight game. The work you’ve put in over the years to get this sport to each pinnacle. Like, honestly you don’t get enough credit that you truly deserve.

Even this new ESPN deal that we got. Like when Lorenzo [Fertitta] bowed out I wasn’t sure what would happen. Then with the ESPN deal done it’s like…you’re a true pioneer and an OG of the fight game and it’s an honor to be up here doing business with you.

I know we’ve had our ups and downs in our work relationship but it’s an honor, brother, alright? Thank you so much. So thank you for them kind words about Muhammad Ali and always…you tell the truth. No matter what, you tell the truth. Like me also! So he sayin’ that about Muhammad Ali and the mental warfare I respect that and appreciate that but Muhammad Ali is a special, special individual.”

When McGregor steps into the Octagon on Saturday night it will be his first timing do so since UFC 205 in November 2016 when he defeated Eddie Alvarez to become the lightweight champion.

This article first appeared on BJPenn.com on 10/4/2018