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Tyson Fury believes his gift of gab rubbed off on Conor McGregor during the “Notorious” one’s ascent.

McGregor has long been known for his bravado on the mic and during interviews. While many believe that McGregor’s prime years are long gone, the popular Irish star still has a presence that very few, if any, can match. Fury believes McGregor replicated the work he was putting in to build his fights.

In an interview with ALF Global, “The Gypsy King” took credit for McGregor’s ability to move audiences with his trash talk (h/t MMAFighting).

“I taught him,” Fury said. “He copied me. He copied my style.

“I’ve been talking shit from the beginning. A long time. I don’t do it to get in their heads. Boxing is a show business. Boxing is Hollywood. Boxing is a movie. The fans have to be entertained, so when they tune in and pay pay-per-view to watch Tyson Fury fight, press conference build-up, they’re going to see a show. That’s why they come to see. It’s going to be a crazy show, something’s going to happen. It’s like a circus.”

Fury and McGregor first won world titles in 2015. Fury defeated Wladimir Klitschko to win the WBA, IBF, The Ring, and IBO heavyweight titles. McGregor stopped Chad Mendes to capture the interim UFC featherweight gold before pulling off a stunning 13-second knockout over Jose Aldo to earn the undisputed distinction.

Over the years, fans have seen similarities between “The Gypsy King” and “Mystic Mac” in terms of verbal sparring. Some feel that McGregor has a more aggressive approach that tends to get personal depending on the opponent. Fury noted that he draws the line when it comes to talking about family.

Do you think Conor McGregor copied Tyson Fury’s trash talking style? Is it the other way around? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

This article appeared first on BJPENN.COM