Ilia Topuria has shared details regarding a possible fight with Conor McGregor.
Despite uncertainties surrounding Conor McGregor`s return to the Octagon due to various factors, including politics, social activities, and injuries, the possibility of his comeback remains a topic of discussion. McGregor, a former champion in two weight divisions, has been inactive since his leg injury sustained in a fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. His planned bout with Michael Chandler last summer was also canceled due to injury.
Should McGregor decide to reverse his retirement hints and compete again, there are only a select few opponents that would be logical choices for him at this point in his career.
One such opponent is Ilia Topuria, the former UFC Featherweight Champion.
Ilia Topuria Confirms Previous Discussions About Fighting Conor McGregor
In a recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Topuria mentioned that there had been prior conversations between him and the UFC about a potential matchup with Conor McGregor, arguably the sport`s most prominent figure.
“Actually, we had some talks about it,” Topuria disclosed.
Topuria refrained from specifying when these discussions occurred, possibly to avoid repercussions from the UFC.
“You know how the UFC is, very particular… `don`t disclose anything to anyone`…”
“If the UFC proposed a fight with Conor right now, why would I refuse?” Topuria stated.
“I wouldn`t decline…”
Ilia Topuria Believes Conor McGregor Needs a Complete Transformation
The Conor McGregor of today is significantly different from the version who achieved a 7-0 record in the UFC featherweight division a decade ago.
McGregor`s recent fight record is 1 win and 3 losses in his last four outings, with his most recent victory being a TKO against Donald Cerrone in 2020. Furthermore, the 36-year-old has reportedly not undergone a full training camp in nearly four years.
The undefeated Ilia Topuria, a former undisputed champion, issued a strong warning to `The Notorious` concerning a hypothetical fight.
“It depends on who his opponent is,” Topuria commented on McGregor`s preparation.
“However, if he is matched against me, he needs a complete rebirth,” Topuria asserted.
“His toe is compromised. His chin is compromised. His physical condition is compromised. With excessive partying and substance use, there will inevitably be consequences.
“He is paying the price with his health, which is the most unwise decision one can make in life.
He also suffered significantly from weight cutting, which causes considerable harm to the body.”
Topuria continued,
“You can possess everything in life, but without health, you essentially have nothing.”
Rupert Hartwell