Conor McGregor Praises Lee Hammond's Performance Despite Loss, Hammond Frustrated with Self-Admitted Rookie Mistake
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In a shocking turn of events on the latest episode of The Ultimate Fighter, Conor McGregor witnessed his teammate Lee Hammond succumb to a devastating chokehold, leaving McGregor winless in six episodes of the UFC reality TV show. Meanwhile, his rival, Michael Chandler, inches closer to a clean sweep. McGregor had high hopes for Hammond to secure a victory, but despite a strong start, Hammond ultimately fell victim to a guillotine choke from opponent Kurt Holobaugh. McGregor’s emotional reaction of despair reflected his disappointment as he consoled his teammate in the cage.
With outstanding ground control and efficient ground-and-pound attacks against Holobaugh, Hammond had a strong start to the fight. In the last seconds of the first round, as Hammond was landing strong elbows, McGregor fervently pleaded with him to end the contest. Holobaugh survived the assault despite Hammond’s superiority, though.
Despite having a concern about an injury before the second round, Hammond kept control of the fight’s tempo. He appeared to be in charge, using a combination of ground attacks and efforts at surrender. Hammond, however, made a vital mistake during a scramble with less than two minutes left, giving up his neck and falling victim to a guillotine choke applied by Holobaugh. McGregor expressed his dissatisfaction with the result by kneeling on the ground and putting his head in his hands.
In the aftermath of the fight, McGregor expressed his belief that Hammond was the superior fighter and praised his performance. McGregor commended Hammond’s growth and development, emphasizing his commitment to the sport. However, Hammond dismissed McGregor’s compliments and appeared frustrated with himself, acknowledging his rookie mistake in a bout against an experienced veteran.
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Tensions between McGregor and Chandler escalated after the fight, leading to a heated altercation and McGregor pushing his rival. UFC President Dana White swiftly intervened to separate the two fighters. The clash between McGregor and Chandler further fuels their rivalry as the competition intensifies on The Ultimate Fighter.
In the forthcoming episode, McGregor will be relying on Landon Quinones, a knockout expert, to defeat UFC veteran Jason Knight. To rally his squad, overcome Hammond’s loss, and restore momentum to the program, McGregor will be keen to do so.
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