Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion Conor McGregor expects to earn another crack at the 155-pound crown when he makes his return from injury in 2022, despite consecutive losses to top contender Dustin Poirier and a 1-3 record in the division.
I guess now is a good time to mention that Yoel Romero was coming off consecutive losses and a 1-3 run at middleweight and yet somehow managed to score a title shot against Israel Adesanya — and “Soldier of God” is nowhere near the level of McGregor when it comes to marketability.
“I am billi walking straight to a title shot on my return and it sickens the bums of this business,” the 22-6 McGregor wrote on Twitter. “Which is the real reason these constant disrespectful comments come my way. God bless them.”
Despite his title aspirations, McGregor also told his social media followers that a switch to boxing was still on the table, as was a potential return to the UFC welterweight division. And it doesn’t sound like “Notorious” is intimidated by what current 170-pound champion, Kamaru Usman, has accomplished as welterweight champion.
“Quite possible, yes,” McGregor, 33, said about a return to welterweight. “[If] I fight for the 170lb title I will spark [Usman] too. … I’m improving rapidly! Working with the best team money can buy! I’ll be back in no time, lock loaded!”
McGregor broke his leg against Dustin Poirier last month in Las Vegas but is likely to make a full recovery and work his way back to the Octagon in mid-to-late 2022. During his absence, “The Diamond” is expected to move forward and fight Charles Oliveira for the 155-pound strap later this year.