Conor McGregor coach John Kavanagh confirmed to media that there are ongoing negotiations with the UFC regarding the biggest star’s return. He added that McGregor’s competitive spirit has been revived in recent training sessions.
The UFC would like to set up a lightweight championship bout between undefeated champion from Russian Khabib Nurmagomedov (26-0) and McGregor (21-3).
“I really have seen the spark back lately. I think that was directed at the other areas of his life for a while, building up his business world – which is completely justified. We all know the hard-luck stories of fighters retiring broke. They get pats on the back and they’re forgotten.” Kavanagh said.
“I ed him on focusing on other business and I’m fully behind it, but I do see the spark back. I do see him very hungry, coming down to regular jiu-jitsu class and throwing gi on. Strength and conditioning. There’s a real fire back.” Kavanagh added.
McGregor hasn’t fought in the UFC since 2016. He left the octagon to build his professional boxing debut in last year. He was losing to American Floyd Mayweather by a technical knockout in the 10th round.
The Irish star faces legal problems in New York in connection with the riot he caused in Brooklyn when he attacked a UFC bus carrying fighters, some of whom were injured. He negotiates a plea of guilty with the Attorney General. His next court appearance will be on July 26.
UFC president Dana White believes the biggest star Conor McGregor will return and fight this year. (Source:www.sportstalkflorida.com)
“It’s a cliche to say, but it’s a classic striker versus grappler. Khabib needs to get into that clinch, his hands and start chaining his takedowns together. Obviously, we need to try and prevent that.” Kavanagh said.
“I think a lot of people are so afraid of Khabib’s grappling, they don’t engage with him. Conor is a good grappler. I know that will get a lot of people upset when I say that, but watch his fights.
“There’s plenty of evidence to that claim. I’m feeling and he’s feeling confident, wherever the fight goes. But the left hand will be the difference in the fight.” Kavanagh added.
UFC president Dana White, meanwhile, believed that McGregor will return and fight at some point this year. According to him, the 29-year-old man has expressed interest in a September return.
