Conor McGregor has posted a touching tribute to the 'Original Ultimate Fighter' Stephan Bonnar.
The Notorious is in America at the moment filming the latest season of 'The Ultimate Fighter' alongside Michael Chandler, who McGregor will fight later this year.
The UFC's reality TV series will air it's 31st season in the coming months, and McGregor has taken time out of his busy schedule to show his respect for the TUF legend.
READ MORE: Jon Jones excludes Conor McGregor from his top-five UFC fighters in history
"Stephan Bonnar. The original “Ultimate Fighter!” wrote McGregor on Instagram as he posed alongside a memorial of Bonnar, who passed away at the age of 45 in December 2022.
Bonnar appeared on the very first season of the show way back in 2005. He fought UFC legend Forrest Griffin in the final of the show, with Griffin winning and becoming the first ever 'Ultimate fighter.'
The fight between the pair is widely considered to be one of the most important fights in the history of MMA. The back and forth contest is often said to be the MMA equivalent of 'Hagler v Hearns.'
MMA and the UFC exploded in popularity after the Bonnar/Griffin fight, and today, the UFC is one of the most famous brands in the World.
The Ultimate Fighter was renewed for a second season, and a whole new generation of fans were introduced to the sport.
In the decade and a half since the fight, UFC President Dana White has continuously stressed the important role both Bonnar and Griffin played in the growth of the UFC.
'Stephan Bonnar was one of the most important fighters to ever compete in the Octagon,' said UFC President Dana White at the time of Bonnar's death.
'His fight with Forrest Griffin changed the sport forever, and he will never be forgotten.
'The fans loved him, related to him and he always gave them his best. He will be missed.'
READ NEXT:
Graeme McDowell LIV prize money dwarfs Shane Lowry's Honda Classic payout
Maura Higgins shares video from viewing party as she watches Jake Paul v Tommy Fury
Tommy Fury leaves viewers 'in tears' after loving tribute to Molly Mae and daughter Bambi
Craig Casey reveals how close he came to missing first Six Nations start for Ireland
Ireland's Grand Slam hopes the last standing as Andy Farrell tells side to want it more v Scotland
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
