It was hard for Conor McGregor to celebrate a special moment in his career.
Speaking to CBS on the red carpet at the 2020 Grammy Awards on Sunday, UFC superstar and former dual-champ McGregor discussed the impact of basketball legend Kobe Bryant and the news of his tragic death earlier in the day.
Bryant, 41, was killed in a helicopter crash along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna. They were among nine passengers who died in the crash in Calabasas, Calif.
“It’s very, very sad news,” McGregor said. “It’s iconic that I’m here and he used to play in this arena, as well, right? So just very sad news. (He) lost his daughter, as well. It’s kind of hard to get up for it, for this event. I’m very happy to be here, but I’m sad at the same time. … just a very sad time.”
McGregor admitted basketball has never been his sport, but said the impact Bryant had transcended the game.
“For me, the first time I ever came to America, Kobe was one of the big stars and one of the men that jumped out,” McGregor said. “We don’t really understand basketball (in Ireland) too much, but Kobe – his star transcends sport, and a great man. I would have loved to meet him. It’s a very sad day.”
The MMA world was heavily affected by five-time NBA champion Bryant’s death. Bryant was a partner with UFC sponsor BodyArmour.
