Conor McGregor has been told he is "too drunk" to return to the UFC lightweight division by rival Islam Makhachev.
The Irish star is contemplating his return to the UFC later this year with options on the table both at 155lbs and 170lbs.
He has been posting frequently of him drinking despite promises to fans he will focus on a return to training.
Lightweight contender Makhachev has confirmed he would be willing to face McGregor on his comeback, but believes he is in far worse shape than when he fought his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov.
"I think this is fake for the fans; it would make it interesting but I think this is fake," Makhachev told ESPN MMA when asked about an immediate title shot for McGregor. "I think it will be very hard for him to make 155lb because he is drunk all day.
"A lot of people are going to smash him in this division. He is going to just fight Nate Diaz or some old people to make some money. He is never going to champion and he will never compete at this level.
"He just plays game he will never take this fight with me because he knows it is going to be a long night for him, after what Khabib did to him.
"He is not the same now, when he fought Khabib he was in good shape and not drunk too much but now he has to retire.
"This guy has money and everything but if he wants to comeback, let's do it. I will smash him."
Makhachev who is also eyeing a challenge to the winner of Charles Oliveira's defence against Justin Gaethje.
McGregor promised fans he would stop drinking after provoking concern with several social media videos of himself drinking during his time in his pub The Black Forge Inn.
With fans questioning his future plans on Instagram, McGregor reiterated his plans to avoid alcohol, posting: "For my fighting fans. I want to say I know I am enjoying myself with my liquid.
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"But very soon I will be immersing myself in full training again with complete abstention from my wonderful creations of Spirit and Ale. Just 5 more minutes Ma!"
The Irishman late reiterated his stance ahead of his training comeback and his planned return will involve isolation away from any pubs.
"Once I get the leg cleared and I get that feeling when I kick a body, step back in and out, then I'll be able to gauge time," McGregor told SevereMMA.
"Then I'm going to isolate myself, stay away from the pub, stay away from my Forged Irish stout, my delicious smooth Proper 12 Irish whiskey and dedicate myself to my craft 100 per cent."
