Makhachev Says He'd Box McGregor

Islam Makhachev says he'd fight Conor McGregor (22-7) in a boxing match without needing a big paycheck, expressing confidence he could handle McGregor once the early rounds pass.

"Yes maybe he's dangerous in the first round, but after that I don't think he has any chance. Honestly, regardless of the purse I'd box [Conor]," Makhachev

McGregor remains regarded as one of MMA's better boxers, having gone 10 rounds with Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2017, though he's currently recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus suffered against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in July — his first fight in years. Makhachev, who has developed considerably as a striker during his run atop the UFC pound-for-pound rankings, sees the matchup as a major draw for fans.

McGregor, 38, is targeting July 2027 for the final fight on his UFC contract and has said he plans to move into bare-knuckle competition afterward.