Unforgettable Turmoil at UFC 223

The latest episode of The Ariel Helwani Show, posted on April 7, 2025, dives deep into one of the most chaotic moments in UFC history. The focus is on UFC 223, an event forever marked by Conor McGregor's infamous dolly attack on a bus carrying fighters, including his rival Khabib Nurmagomedov. This incident, which unfolded in April 2018 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, is recounted with vivid detail, capturing the sheer pandemonium that ensued during that fight week.

The Dolly Attack Unraveled

At around the 2:15 mark of the video, the host breaks down the lead-up to McGregor's actions. The tension between McGregor and Nurmagomedov had been simmering for months, fueled by personal and professional rivalries. On that fateful day, McGregor, accompanied by his entourage, stormed the media day event, targeting the bus carrying Nurmagomedov and other fighters. The most shocking moment came when McGregor hurled a dolly through the bus window, shattering glass and injuring fighters inside, including Michael Chiesa, who suffered cuts from the debris.

Immediate Aftermath and Arrest

By the 5:30 timestamp, the discussion shifts to the immediate consequences of the attack. The incident led to widespread chaos, with security scrambling to control the situation. McGregor was arrested shortly after, facing charges related to assault and criminal mischief. This dramatic turn of events not only disrupted the UFC 223 fight card but also left a lasting stain on McGregor's reputation within the sport. The host emphasizes the surreal nature of witnessing such an unhinged act during what was supposed to be a routine media day.

Impact on Fighters and Event

Further into the episode, near the 8:45 mark, the narrative explores the ripple effects on the fighters involved. Michael Chiesa, who was set to compete at UFC 223, had to withdraw from his bout due to injuries sustained from the broken glass. Other fighters on the bus were left shaken, and the incident cast a shadow over the entire event. The host reflects on how this moment became a defining chapter in UFC history, overshadowing the fights themselves and amplifying the McGregor-Nurmagomedov rivalry ahead of their eventual clash at UFC 229.

Broader Implications for UFC

Towards the latter part of the video, around the 12:10 mark, the conversation touches on the broader implications of the incident. The attack raised serious questions about fighter safety and event security protocols within the UFC. It also intensified scrutiny on McGregor's behavior outside the octagon, with debates raging over whether his actions were a publicity stunt or a genuine loss of control. This segment of the episode underscores how UFC 223 remains a cautionary tale for the organization and its athletes.