UFC: Conor McGregor told to ‘sign the deal’ by Donald Cerrone as comeback nears – ‘let’s get it done’

Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone has told Conor McGregor to “sign the damn deal” to fight him after the Irishman announced he will return to the UFC Octagon on January 18.

Cerrone (professional record 31 wins, 13 losses) is the promotion’s most active fighter and, despite losing to lightweight contender Justin Gaethje last month, is eager to return against a big name.

“I think Conor’s side and our team both reached out and are trying to figure it out – it’s looking good,” Cerrone told TMZ on Tuesday.

“I think it’s going to happen this time, I really do. Conor’s really serious about making a comeback and doing whatever he wants to do … He’s a great fighter, he has a lot of punching power. It should be a good time,” added the 36-year-old.

McGregor (21-4), who is currently facing two sexual assault investigations, announced his comeback at a press conference in Russia last week.

He would not reveal his proposed opponent’s name but insisted the fight would mark the start of his “season”. He is also targeting the winner of this weekend’s “BMF” bout between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz, as well as a rematch with Khabib Nurmagomedov (or Tony Ferguson if “El Cucuy” beats the lightweight champion).

Conor McGregor’s comeback presser a shameful PR stunt

The Irishman has not fought since losing to current champion Khabib in October 2018. Cerrone is coming off two losses in Gaethje and Ferguson, having previously beaten Al Iaquinta, Alexander Hernandez and Mike Perry.

“Four years ago, I would say maybe he could carry the card,” Cerrone said of McGregor. “But I would say I’ve got just as much needle as he does. It’s going to be a huge fight, [one] that everyone wants to watch. He’s the best in the business – we’ll see how crazy it gets.

“Sign the damn deal, man. Let’s get it done. I don’t put my gloves on to lose, I’m going to give him hell – it’s going to be a fun time.”

A potential bout between the pair had been discussed over the summer but talks were put on hold because of McGregor’s injury hiatus. UFC president Dana White said on Tuesday that he is indeed working on a deal for McGregor to fight in Las Vegas on January 18, though.

“Yes, we will have a fight in Vegas, we gotta get it done, the fight’s not done yet,” White told one sports personality The Schmo this week.

“At his press conference he announced he’s coming back but no deals are done, no fights are done, no contracts have been signed. But that’s what we’re gonna do.”