Former two-division champion Conor McGregor, who is finally set to return to action after an almost three-year hiatus from the Octagon, has been described as looking “smooth” as he shows off a variety of kicks in a new sparring session. Footage has been released ahead of his return at UFC 303.
McGregor, a former undisputed gold holder in the lightweight and featherweight divisions under the promotion's banner, will return to the Octagon at UFC 303 at the end of June during International Fight Week, forming a long-awaited pairing at welterweight. He is scheduled to face Michael Chandler at Marginal.
McGregor, who has been out of action for the past three years, most recently lost to mutual foe Dustin Poirier by TKO in a first round doctor's stoppage after suffering a gruesome post-round injury that fractured his left tibia and fibula. .
Conor McGregor shows off some kick-heavy sparring before UFC 303
Conor McGregor has ramped up camp at his home Straight Blast Gym ahead of his expected return, releasing sparring footage earlier this month and confirming his return against Chandler in June with UFC CEO Dana White While doing so, he showed off his batting skills.
And this week, the 35-year-old Also released unreleased footageFans took note of his kick-heavy training approach, including blade stances, variations on roundhouse kicks and lead hook kicks.
McGregor, who was backed by long-time head coach John Kavanaugh to win the fight against Chandler within two rounds, is being pushed to approach the fight in a similar style to his 2015 fight against Chad Mendes.
And while fans watching seemed impressed by the Dubliner's shocking match, many chose Chandler to win with a blowout win of his own.
“That hook kick reminds me of my featherweight days” Anne X Posted by user.
“Connor looks smooth in this.”
“Connor is back.”
“Chandler will toy with McGregor for five rounds.”
“This is how I spar. I'm 62 years old.”
“Conor will definitely go for the head kick! And honestly, he looks pretty quick, so there's a good chance he'll catch Chandler.”
Who would you choose to win at UFC 303: Conor McGregor or Michael Chandler?
