Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) lightweight champion, Conor McGregor, is known for his exceptional footwork and elite-level striking, which helped propel the power-punching Irishman to 18 knockouts in 22 wins.
So then why was he “flat-footed, chin down, stalking, and shoulder rolling” in his UFC 229 main event loss to Khabib Nurmagomedov? That was the question posed by a “Notorious” mixed martial arts (MMA) fan last night on Twitter.
“I broke my foot three weeks out from the bout,” McGregor answered. “I still marched forward, however, and also landed the final blows of the night. On his blood brother. I am happy with how the contest went and the lessons learned. In my fighting and more importantly my preparation. Time will reveal all.”
McGregor was dropped by “The Eagle” and ended up losing the fight by submission, in what was a fairly one-sided “knock.” Sure, “Notorious” had his moments throughout the contest, but he looked like a rusty fighter who had not stepped into the cage in almost two years.
Oh wait, he was. But that’s okay! It was all part of the plan!
Very happy with my defense.
A precarious position with the head pinned against the fence. Every movement must be calculated as any over exertion leaves the guard open and could lead to a finishing blow. None of which came close.
Zero facial damage taken and I won the next round. https://t.co/1bcPWNQfRy— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) April 11, 2019
Following the loss, both McGregor and Nurmagomedov drew disciplinary suspensions for participating in a post-fight brawl. “Notorious” has already been cleared to resume his UFC career; however, he’s currently serving out his self-imposed retirement.
And he’s got those pesky legal issues to deal with.
“I am quite fine thank you,” McGregor told a concerned fan. “Don’t believe everything you read! And from certain outlets, believe NOTHING you read!”
Present company included.