Conor McGregor has paid tribute to UFC owners, Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta, amid reports that the company will be sold to private investors.

It is understood that the UFC will be sold to a group led by WME-IMG for four billion dollars, which would make it the largest franchise sale in sports history.

Despite a recent high-profile spat with UFC president Dana White, McGregor says that it was a ‘true honour’ to have fought under the Fertitta regime.

I am honoured to have fought under the Fertitta regime! To have been mentored by these great people on this great business is a true honour!

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) July 11, 2016

According to mmafighting.com Lorenzo Fertitta expected to remain as chairman during the transition of ownership, but then step down. He and his brother Frank will remain on as minority owners. The brothers bought UFC in 2000 for just $2 million.

UFC 200 was the last event for Lorenzo Fertitta before selling the company for $4 billion. Dana White will remain. pic.twitter.com/rCT4qk8AHQ

— Arash Markazi (@ArashMarkazi) July 11, 2016

Dana White is expected to continue in the role of president of the franchise and will also hold a minority stake.