C. McGregor is preparing for his return to MMA. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Former UFC two-division champion Conor McGregor surprised the sports world by announcing that he wants to face legendary Filipino boxer Manny Pacquiao in a boxing match in the Middle East. The challenge was made last Saturday (December 23rd) during the 'Day of Reckoning' boxing event held in Saudi Arabia, where the Irishman watched the card alongside football star Cristiano Ronaldo.
McGregor, who had already ventured into boxing in 2017, when he lost to Floyd Mayweather, said he wants Pacquiao to move up in weight to face him with his current larger physique. He also taunted the 45-year-old boxer, calling him a “rat” and questioning his courage.
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“Tell Manny (Pacquiao) to have courage and fight me in a higher weight class. Why not? It's his sport. If he wants me to drop to a lower weight, I could use more of my weapons. Kicks, grappling. It would not be fair? Tell him. Is Manny a man or a mouse?” said Conor, eliciting laughter from CR7.
Understand the case between McGregor and Pacquiao
McGregor's challenge has a legal backdrop, as he and Pacquiao are involved in a legal dispute over a breach of contract. According to Notório, the boxer owes US$8 million (around R$39,1 million) to Paradigm Sports, the agency that legally represents the Irishman, for not fulfilling an agreement that provided for a fight between him and Mikey Garcia.
Pacquiao, who received a $3,3 million advance (approximately R$ 16,1 million) from the agency, ended up not facing the opponent that had been agreed upon, Mikey Garcia, and was ordered to pay the amount received, plus $1,8 million (approximately R$ 8,8 million) for moral damages. Conor, in turn, is expected to return to the UFC in 2024.
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