I think he trying desperately to get himself out of the fight. I see it as one big scam to not have to defend. He tried hitting the ref and they didnt suspend him. So he figures hit some random person in pub should do the trick.Although he very obviously avoids defending like the plague, I don't think that's why he is doing a bunch of idiotic stuff.
THAT I attribute to him likely being coked clean out of his gourd on the regular.
I don't think it's Tony. I think he's doing it so he doesn't have to defend the belt.
Conor would light Tony's ass up like a Christmas tree, don't kid yourself.