Kazakhstan's batyr and Power Slap tournament participant Zakir Naimanbayev has publicly challenged former UFC champion Conor McGregor to a slap fight, proposing they compete in 'shapalaks'. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Naimanbayev, who has experience competing in Dana White's American Power Slap league, addressed McGregor on Instagram, calling him to test his strength and jaw.
"Conor McGregor, I want to challenge you to a slap fight in Dana White's promotion. You all know that I represent Kazakhstan in Power Slap, Dana White's promotion. I deal out shapalaks.
I want to challenge Conor to a fight. Why not? If Jake Paul himself writes comments to me that my form is bad — it means they are interested in my videos and my tricks. So after the fight between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway, I want to challenge Conor to slaps. As our show. That would be cool.
Tag Conor McGregor under this video, let him notice it. I think it will be cool. Alga, Kazakhstan!" Naimanbayev said on social media.
The challenge was timed to Conor McGregor's expected return to big sport.
His fight against Max Holloway will take place at UFC 329 in Las Vegas. It will be his return to the octagon after a long break.
Zakir Naimanbayev fought his last bout in March 2026 at a tournament in Las Vegas. Then the Kazakhstani put on a bright show in a fight against tough American Wesley Mena and won by unanimous decision, demonstrating phenomenal resilience.
See this Instagram post Publication from Zakir Naimanbayev (@zakir_naimanbayev)