In a recent exclusive interview with TNT Sports, UFC icon Conor McGregor opened up about his meticulous approach to selecting opponents as he gears up for his highly anticipated return to the Octagon.
McGregor, famously known as “The Notorious,” has been on hiatus since his unfortunate leg injury during his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021.
Despite his absence, McGregor has remained a dominant figure in the MMA world, constantly making headlines with his strategic moves and bold statements.
During the interview, McGregor touched to the challenges faced by fighters who have achieved considerable success in the sport and the subsequent difficulty in maintaining peak performance over time.
Drawing parallels with legends like Georges St-Pierre and Alexander Volkanovski, McGregor emphasized the importance of rest, recuperation, and recalibration to sustain longevity in the unforgiving realm of mixed martial arts.
“It’s like a weight of something atop them,” McGregor remarked, alluding to the pressure experienced by elite fighters. “And they just allow it, and to just, boom, take them right out of the game. I’m aware that that’s present, I am aware that is present, that feeling, that thing, whatever it is.”
Conor Mcgregor
Asserting his commitment to strategic planning, McGregor highlighted his reluctance to engage in bouts that could potentially jeopardize his legacy in the future. “I’m not gonna be 40-odd and looking at the 19-year-old wonderkid from wherever he’s from, you know what I’m saying?” McGregor quipped, underlining his intention to face opponents who are on par with his experience and skill level.
McGregor’s approach to matchmaking became evident as he discussed potential adversaries for his comeback fight.
While names like Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, and Nate Diaz have been circulating in the rumor mill, McGregor hinted at his preference for opponents who share a similar age and history in the sport.
“Look at all of my potential opponents,” McGregor exclaimed. “I have gangs of opponents, literally, I could fight, and that I have history with. Trilogies, secondary fights, fresh fights even, these are all a similar age to me, these people are a similar age to me, and I have an audience interested, which I do.”
Conor McGregor
As fans eagerly await McGregor’s return to the Octagon, speculation continues to swirl regarding his next opponent and the potential matchups that could shape his illustrious career.
