Conor McGregor has issued an apology for his behaviour during the Bellator 187 event in Dublin last Friday.
The UFC lightweight champion entered the Octagon to celebrate with Charlie Ward after the latter beat John Redmond in a first round knockout.
However, McGregor ended up in a confrontation with the fight referee Marc Goddard which sparked angry scenes within the Octagon.
"I sincerely apologize for my behavior at last weekends fight event in Dublin. While trying to support a loyal teammate and friend, I let my emotions get the best of me and acted out of line. As a multiple weight UFC champion, executive producer, role model and public figure, I must hold myself to a higher standard," he wrote on Instagram.
"The referee Marc Godard was making a horrendous decision in trying to pick an unconscious fighter up off the floor and force the fight to continue into the second round.
"Even against the wishes of the said fighters coach. The fight was over.
"After witnessing my fighter in a fight where the worst happened and the opponent passed away from his injuries on the night, I thought the worst was about to happen again, and I lost it and over reacted. I am sorry to everyone.
"I sincerely apologize to the Director of the Mohegan Tribe Department of Athletic Regulation, Mike Mazzulli, all the officials and staff working the event, Andy Ryan and his fighter John, two stonch (sic) ones that put up a great fight every time. That side will always have my respect, and lastly every one of my fans. I love yous all!
"I’ve always learned from my mistakes and this will be no different."
Conor McGregor has released a statement on his instagram about his behaviour at #BellatorDublin pic.twitter.com/79aViBRGTm
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) November 14, 2017
