LeBron James: 'It's humbling' to hear Conor McGregor is inspired by Lakers star's actions

Nolan King | MMA Junkie

LeBron James felt a sense of accomplishment when he was informed of Conor McGregor's recent comments about him.

In a recent interview with ESPN, McGregor (21-4 MMA, 9-2 UFC) revealed he's drawn inspiration from James' self-care regimen. McGregor said a focus of his UFC 246 camp has been to value his health and wellness over material possessions.

"I actually said this to Tony Robbins, right?" McGregor said. "Because I read something about LeBron James a while back, about maybe a year ago. He spent $1.5 million annually on his health, his self, his everything, his nutritionist — and I spent nothing.

"Only in camp (do) I bring a team together. That's not the way to do this, but I drop money on a bleeding car or a watch. I'm like, 'Spend on myself, my health, and my fitness.' That's helped me. Then you acquire more. You're going to acquire even more then."

In a recent scrum with reporters, James responded to McGregor's complimentary comments. The all-time NBA great, who is a four-time league MVP and three-time champion, said he was humbled to hear his actions have served as inspiration for other top-tier athletes around the globe.

"To be in all honesty, I play the game and I train my body," James said (via HoopJab). "I put the work into my body to hope to inspire other athletes around the world — other great athletes. If I'm able to rub off on Conor and other athletes that feel like it's beneficial to them, I think that's a pretty cool thing. It's humbling for one.

"I take my body very seriously. I'm just trying to maximize my career and see how long I can continue to play the game that I love. It starts with the body. It ends with the mind. If the mind is sharp, then you can go a lot longer than you may think. That's what it's all about. You've got to be disciplined. It's all about discipline, as well."

On Saturday night at UFC 246, viewers will have the opportunity to see if McGregor's lifestyle changes have paid off. In the main event, McGregor takes on Donald Cerrone (35-13 MMA, 22-10 UFC) in a five-round welterweight bout.

UFC 246 takes place Saturday at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main card airs on pay-per-view following prelims on ESPN and early prelims on UFC Fight Pass/ ESPN+.