Conor McGregor defied boxing convention by stepping into the ring ahead of Anthony Joshua's match.
Conor McGregor defied boxing convention by stepping into the ring ahead of Anthony Joshua’s match. The UFC icon shortened a family vacation to ensure his presence at the O2 Arena for the event. His brand, Irish Forged Stout, held an official sponsorship for the event, granting McGregor a prime ringside seat for the night.
However, just before Derek Chisora’s controversial victory over Gerald Washington, the Irishman confidently strolled around the ring, exuding his signature swagger. He even paused for a photo opportunity with promoter Eddie Hearn. What escaped McGregor’s notice, however, was that he inadvertently breached the protocol set by the British Boxing Board of Control.
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Strictly reserved for holders of BBBoC licenses, entry into the ring is a privilege.
Earlier in the week, McGregor had presented Joshua with a box of his signature Irish Forged Stout, extending his admiration to the former champion.
On Twitter, he lauded Joshua, stating, “This man @anthonyjoshua is the definition of class, quality, and loyalty! What him and @EddieHearn have built is just absolute magic!”
“I cannot wait to witness AJ Powerhouse do work this weekend and live from ringside! Wow! Honored! Let’s go!”
Mesmerized, McGregor observed as Joshua orchestrated a stunning finale in the seventh round against Robert Helenius. A powerful right hand left Helenius incapacitated, prompting McGregor to join in the celebration, offering Joshua a taste of his iconic stout.
McGregor’s ambitious plans extend beyond this bout, as he envisions a future “BMF” title clash with Justin Gaethje (25-4 MMA, 8-4 UFC) followed by a highly anticipated trilogy showdown with Nate Diaz (21-13 MMA, 16-11 UFC) in the year 2024.
“Chandler next, December,” McGregor said. “And then Gaethje ‘BMF’ (title fight). And then we’ll do Nate trilogy.”
In recent times, McGregor has playfully hinted at the possibility of not facing Chandler immediately following their coaching roles on “The Ultimate Fighter 31.” However, UFC President Dana White has unequivocally reassured the global audience that the McGregor-Chandler matchup remains firmly on the agenda, and McGregor’s penchant for engaging in mind games with his potential adversary is well-known.
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