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UFC superstar Conor McGregor has set his sights on a boxing clash with eight-division champion Manny Pacquiao, as he expresses growing frustration with the UFC and a desire to return to the ring.
McGregor, who last fought in July 2021 in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier, has been vocal about his desire to compete again. Meanwhile, Pacquiao, aged 45, has been participating in exhibition bouts since his last official fight in August 2021, where he lost a twelve-round decision to Erislandy Lara before announcing his retirement.
Speaking to Talk Sport, McGregor expressed his eagerness to return to the ring, stating,
"Get me back in there. The Mac has lots to offer and loads to deliver. They are talking Manny here in Saudi. The lads in the UFC aren't really talking any. So, the lads here are talking Manny, the UFC aren't talking any."
McGregor also took the opportunity to challenge Pacquiao, suggesting that the Filipino fighter should "grow a set of balls" and face him at a higher weight class. He emphasized that his previous boxing experience against Floyd Mayweather in 2017 should allow him to use more of his skills in a potential bout with Pacquiao.
In 2017, McGregor made his boxing debut against Mayweather, generating significant interest and over 4 million pay-per-view purchases. Despite his loss in that fight, McGregor's foray into boxing proved financially successful.
As McGregor continues to seek opportunities outside the UFC, his potential clash with Pacquiao could reignite interest in crossover fights between MMA and boxing, further blurring the lines between the two sports.
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