Someone may wonder about the need for Conor McGregor to stay active. The 32-year-old Irishman has been a champion in the UFC, he was the first to own two belts of different categories at the same time and also has his life financially resolved after his boxing fight against Mayweather. All of these factors may explain their comings and goings, but he always comes back and he likes fighting. There was nothing more to see him this Friday at the weigh-in: smiling, greeting the fans, laughing … in short, enjoying their work.
That joy has also been dedication during the preparation. McGregor’s physical change in recent months has been very great and his physical condition is impressive. He arrives very well prepared, we will see if his cardio has improved if the fight is prolonged. Because Conor alone generates a lot of attraction, but the fight against Dustin Poirier does it much more. The American, who turned 32 on Tuesday, is number one in the lightweight ranking. A good striker and who ensures a war. In his penultimate fight he fell to Khabib, but of his last eight he has won six (another was without result due to an illegal hit by Eddie Álvarez), highlighting the wins against Pettis, Álvarez, Holloway and Hooker.
This Saturday’s fight at Fight Island is not new. The two already crossed paths for the first time in September 2014. The two have little to do now, Poirier wanted to assert himself in the company and McGregor was just getting started. On that occasion, a tough battle was also expected and the Irishman did not take two minutes to put an end to the lawsuit. It is something that can happen with McGregor, who leaving out the character, we must not forget that he has 86% of victories by KO. He is a deadly puncher and his physical condition suggests that he may have increased his power. They are two great strikers, so the fight is presupposed standing. Poirier must take care of his hands at first. He’s a good fitter, but you already know what it’s like to end up disconnected against Conor.
In betting, McGregor is a favorite, but not by a wide margin as they give him. He has not fought a year and in the last four he has only disputed two lawsuits. Meanwhile, Poirier arrives more shot and in a great moment of form. It could certainly be a title fight, the Irishman claimed it … but for now Khabib is the champion. The Russian will watch this fight very closely, also the co-star between Hooker and Chandler, if “something motivates him”, he will come back. A rematch between Khabib and McGregor? It is not ruled out, for this ‘The Notorious’ has to amaze and ‘The Eagle’ get excited. We all think about that, but first it will be the turn of the more focused Conor. You must ratify it in the octagon.
