What's Next For McGregor?
Since the beginning of the Conor McGregor’s career as a mixed martial arts fighter, he has wowed audiences with displays of both ruthless precision and immense power in the octagon. Holding a professional record of twenty one wins, three losses, and no draws, McGregor has proven to be a cunning opponent, whose determination to be the best has propelled him to the top. Though one of the top competitors in the UFC currently, he has been out of the octagon for over a year now, and has stated he will return to fight in 2018.
With his last UFC fight being in November of 2016 against Eddie Alvarez, many speculate that the time off will have left him in no condition to begin fighting immediately. Though McGregor did fight Floyd Mayweather in the “Money Fight” last August, the conditioning for a boxer and a mixed martial artist are two very different things. There was talk of Mayweather coming to the UFC octagon for a fight or two, as Dana White, President of the UFC, is reported to have spoken to his managers about an MMA deal. This talk was shut down very fast by Mayweather though, who clearly stated he had little to no interest in such an idea.
Other speculation suggested that McGregor would fight Nate Diaz for the third time upon reentry into the UFC. Diaz, who hasn’t fought since McGregor handed him a loss at their second clash in August of 2016, has made no move towards promoting such a fight. Though he has much to gain from such a fight, there is question as to whether or not he even has the courage to face McGregor a third time. While the idea of such a fight is worth exploring, Dana White has all but vetoed it.
According to White, the fight may happen, but it is not the top priority for McGregor. White stated, “So somewhere along the line there’s a possibility for a trilogy, but right now he [McGregor] has to defend his title against Tony Ferguson.” The fans would be rabid for a third fight with Diaz, but the fact remains that McGregor must defend his title in the Lightweight division if he returns, as there are many who would love to take it from him. Perhaps the most dangerous threat to that title is Tony Ferguson, who is currently ranked as the No. 1 lightweight with a record of 25-3-0. The match-up between McGregor and Ferguson would be highly publicized and well worth watching, as there has not been anyone to challenge the Irishman’s throne in over a year.
As McGregor’s career continues, we see more and more that he is a showman at heart. Though he is relentless in the octagon, he fights in a way that thrills the crowds and keeps them on the very edge of their seats. The fights that he has participated in have gained him worldwide fame, and have locked him in place as one of the UFC’s greatest fighters. Though his path may be uncertain as of right now, it will be interesting to see where it leads, and what titles he shall secure next.
