The new UFC interim featherweight champion has explained his uncharacteristically emotional reaction after UFC 189.
After sending Chad Mendes to the canvas in the second round, Conor McGregor fell to his knees in the centre of the Octagon with tearful eyes. Never before had a UFC crowd witnessed the usually macho and braggadocious fighter react this way after a fight.
The Notorious explained why he was moved to tears after winning the interim featherweight strap, in the post-UFC 189 press conference.
“I didn’t think what way I was going to react. I didn’t know what way I was going to react, but when I put him away and then I jumped on the cage and my coach was like right there on the cage with me and I was just looking around at everything, it overwhelmed me and I came to tears.”
“It has been a hell of a ride. Just over two years I’m here. I’ve already broke every single record in the game. It does not come easy. Trust me when I tell you there’s a lot of work involved. It’s not just about showing up at the gym. It’s not just about that, there’s a lot involved.”
McGregor then hinted that he was injured going into the fight, but refused to reveal any details of the injury.
“I have been home 19 days this year. I have been constantly working, constantly promoting, constantly handling my media obligations, as well as keeping on top of my weight, as well as keeping on top of my skill level, as well as managing niggling injuries.”
However, despite all the pressure weighing down on him in the fight business, he admitted genuinely loving the sport.
“It’s a crazy game, and you know, I absolutely love it. I love this job, I love this game, I love this ride I’m on. I am happy to have taken the gold. It would not matter if it was Jose or it was Chad, this was my belt, this was my night.”
