[autotag]Conor McGregor[/autotag] is known for his signature trash talk. It’s one of his most famous attributes and has been a major factor in his popularity.
The brash Irishman has engaged in wars of words with seemingly every opponent he’s faced – at least since his UFC debut against Marcus Brimage in April 2013. His press conferences have become infamous. Whether bickering with Jose Aldo, Nate Diaz, Khabib Nurmagomedov, or Dustin Poirier, McGregor seems to love verbally besting his opponents.
In 2015, McGregor took on all comers at the UFC’s quarterly “Go Big” press conference. The event featured numerous headliners from the final quarter of the calendar year. Simply put, McGregor had a field day.
One of his targets? Donald Cerrone.
Now four years later, things may have changed. Despite the two fighters’ war of words in the past, McGregor’s tone was total respect on Friday.
In a reflective Instagram post, Cerrone listed off numerous accomplishments he’s achieved over the span of his soon-to-be 51-fight MMA career. In atypical fashion, McGregor commented by wishing Cerrone and his family well.
“Good man Donald, enjoy the Christmas dinner,” McGregor wrote. “Happy holidays to you and the family, from the McGregor’s here in Ireland. See you in 20/20 with bullseye vision.”
McGregor has shown respect towards opponents in the past – but almost always after he fights them. Could McGregor be turning over a new leaf entering 2020? Only time will tell.
Both former lightweights, McGregor (21-4 MMA, 9-2 UFC) and Cerrone (35-13 MMA, 22-10 UFC) will elevate to welterweight when they headline UFC 246.
The event is scheduled to take place Jan. 18 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The main card will stream on pay-per-view after prelims on ESPN/ESPN+.
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