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https://scmp.com/sport/martial-arts/mixed-martial-arts/article/3046352/ufc-conor-mcgregor-negotiations-zuffa-boxing Mixed Martial Arts
UFC: Conor McGregor ‘in negotiations’ with Zuffa Boxing as Manny Pacquiao talks ‘ongoing’
- Conor McGregor hints he could ‘kick-start’ the UFC’s new venture as White reveals a few ‘speed bumps’ in the process
- The Irishman wants a Floyd Mayweather rematch, Manny Pacquiao, and a world boxing title in future
Conor McGregor enters the ring in his super welterweight boxing match against Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Photo: AFP
Conor McGregor has hinted he may scratch his boxing itch at the UFC-run Zuffa Boxing upon its launch expected later this year.
“Who knows, maybe I can kick-start Zuffa Boxing if we can get there,” said McGregor at the UFC 246 pre-fight press conference on Thursday, only days away from his mixed martial arts comeback bout against Donald Cerrone.
The 31-year-old Irishman (professional MMA record 21-4) – who famously lost to undefeated boxer Floyd Mayweather in a 2017 crossover fight – has three boxing targets in sight. A Mayweather rematch, a bout with Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao, and to win a boxing world title.
“I would love that Floyd rematch. I thought I done very well for what was in front of me. Some slight adjustments I’d have done even better and I feel now I could take that victory,” he said.
Floyd Mayweather walks to his corner during his win against Conor McGregor in their super welterweight boxing match in 2017. Photo: AFP
“The Manny Pacquiao [fight], the talks have been ongoing. For me an aspiration is also to win a boxing world title. That would be a phenomenal feather in the cap … and something I will achieve in the future. I’m feeling confident in my boxing ability.”
UFC president had previously told combat sports news outlet Bloody Elbow that there were “speed bumps” and “potholes” that delayed the announcement of the promotion’s new boxing venture. He predicted it would launch in October or November of this year, according to Yahoo! Sports.
Pacquiao celebrates his split-decision victory over Keith Thurman in their WBA welterweight title fight in July 2019. Photo: AFP
At the pre-fight press conference, White said he expected an unusually good start to the UFC’s year.
“We always end the year with big new year’s fights … January is usually the slowest time of the year for us, so to kick it off with a fight like this is awesome. We even had a big gap where we didn’t have fights – we had some time off – so to start January like this is awesome,” said White, who was seen sitting with Mayweather courtside at an NBA game last year.