During Game 4 of the NBA Finals, a peculiar incident unfolded involving UFC star Conor McGregor and the Miami Heat mascot, Burnie. McGregor landed two punches on Burnie during a halftime promotional stunt, sending the individual inside the costume to seek medical attention. The Heat later reported that the employee received pain medication and rested at home.
When questioned about the event, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra commended the mascot performer's resilience. "That exemplifies the Miami Heat toughness," Spoelstra remarked. "He should have been given the chance to retaliate. We won't disclose his identity, but he's a tough individual. He can withstand a blow and return to action."
The staged altercation was part of a promotion for a pain-relief spray. Burnie, sporting oversized boxing gloves and a fighter's robe, was struck by McGregor with a left hook and then punched again after falling. McGregor attempted to apply the pain-relief product to the mascot before Burnie was escorted off the court.
The Denver Nuggets went on to win Game 4, moving closer to their first NBA championship.
