Conor McGregor is eyeing yet another massive payday with a rematch against the undefeated boxing legend, Floyd Mayweather. The former dual-weight UFC champion recently challenged the retired 50-0 boxer, reigniting interest in one of combat sports’ most lucrative rivalries. This comes as McGregor looks to reclaim his place in the fighting world after years of setbacks.
McGregor has been on the sidelines since suffering a devastating shin injury against Dustin Poirier, halting his UFC career. After three long years of rehabilitation, “The Notorious” was set to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303. However, that fight fell apart following a toe injury, further delaying his return to the octagon.
While Chandler initially waited for McGregor, he decided to move on and booked a fight against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, marking his own return after a two-year break. With Chandler no longer an option, McGregor turned his attention to other fighters, including his old foe Dustin Poirier and welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. However, none have shown much interest in facing the Irish superstar.
Despite the challenges, McGregor remains unfazed. During the BKFC Marbella Fight Week, McGregor stirred the pot by taking shots at Mayweather during an interview with JNMediaUK. “Floyd, you little f—er!” McGregor exclaimed, adding, “You’re doing bad conversations trying to get a boxing match at 155. Fight me my way! I’m the side—you all your bare-knuckle. McGregor, Mayweather, 170 lb—let’s go, baby! Take off the gloves and fight!”
McGregor made it clear that he’s willing to fight anyone brave enough to step up. “Every single one of them with the balls to do it—very few of them have the balls to do it. So, anyone who steps up, that’s my respect,” McGregor declared.
Their first bout in 2017 was one of the highest-grossing events in combat sports, generating nearly $300 million for Mayweather and $100 million for McGregor. A rematch would undoubtedly generate similar profits, but the question remains: Will Mayweather step out of retirement for another blockbuster fight?
Interestingly, Mayweather isn’t the only boxer in McGregor’s sights. At one point, McGregor and boxing champion Terence Crawford were close to finalizing a two-fight deal. Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority reportedly offered both fighters a multi-million dollar deal—one fight in a boxing ring and another in the octagon.
However, Crawford ultimately declined, citing his reluctance to fight under MMA rules. “Man, I’m not getting in no f—ing Octagon with you so you can be kicking and elbowing me!” Crawford admitted in an interview. According to Crawford, McGregor acknowledged the differences between their sports, respecting each other’s skills. “You respect my sport, just like I respect yours. If I fought you in the octagon, I’d be at a disadvantage, just like you would be in a boxing ring,” McGregor told Crawford.
While the Crawford fight may be off the table for now, the possibility of it happening in the future remains open.
McGregor’s fiery call-out of Mayweather has reignited hopes for a rematch between the two superstars. Both fighters have proven their ability to draw massive crowds and generate unprecedented paydays, making a second fight highly appealing. But with Mayweather officially retired, it’s unclear if he will accept the challenge.
Regardless, fans are eager to see if McGregor can make a triumphant return to combat sports—and whether he can finally settle the score with Mayweather.
What are your thoughts on a potential rematch between McGregor and Mayweather? Would you like to see it happen? Share your opinions in the comments!
