Carlos Condit concession sees McGregor vs Lawler move one step closer to UFC 200

Does Carlos Condit know something we don't?

When we first heard mention of Conor McGregor and the welterweight division, we presumed he was doling out advice, or trash talk. Then word began to filter through that the featherweight champion was seriously considering a tilt at Robbie Lawler's 170lb crown. McGregor confirmed as much at the UFC 196 press conference and, this week, spoke at length of his lofty ambitions within the promotion. He told Severe MMA:

"Why not go up? They get slower and they get even less free up there." "They're stiffer. They're even more stuck in the mud than the lightweight division. I'll keep going, keep eating, keep training, I'll keep going until all the fucking belts are wrapped up."

While not mentioning McGregor by name, welterweight champion Robbie Lawler responded to the speculation by claiming he would take the head off anyone the UFC put in front of him. Another revelation from that McGregor interview was the declaration he was 'committed to UFC 200' in Las Vegas. Last night, a major obstacle in the way of Lawler vs. McGregor at UFC 200 appeared to be removed. Carlos Condit, who lost a split decision title fight to Lawler at UFC 195, is prepared to wait for a rematch until later this year. Ariel Helwani told UFC Tonight:

"Carlos met with the UFC last week and he's in a holding pattern right now. He wants a rematch with Lawler, but Conor McGregor may move up to 170 if he wins in March. "Also, if Georges-St Pierre comes back, he might get the title fight next. Carlos says he wants a title shot and might sit on the sidelines if he doesn't get it."

All McGregor has to do now is beat lightweight champion Rafael Dos Anjos at next month's UFC 196. The impossible is starting to look more and more possible with each passing week.