C. McGregor (photo) returns to the octagon on January 23, against D. Poirier. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
Back to the Octagon UFC 257, which takes place on January 23, in Abu Dhabi, Conor McGregor received praise from a big name in MMA grappling. Challenger for the Ultimate welterweight (up to 77kg) belt, Gilbert Durinho stated that the 'Notório' has underrated wrestling and, on his YouTube channel, he justified this thought.
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“People think he (Conor) is very bad (at wrestling), but he is very good. People don't remember when he dropped Nate diaz in the first fight between them (in 2016). I think he is underrated. They say 'all you have to do is knock it down'. Firstly, when a guy controls the distance like Conor, it's not easy to take him to the ground”, said the Brazilian.
One of the biggest phenomenons in the recent history of mixed martial arts, McGregor gained worldwide fame for his ability to knock out his opponents. With precise punch combinations and leg skills, the Irishman surpassed names like José Aldo, Dustin poirier, Donald Cerrone and Eddie Alvarez. For Durinho, however, the Irishman's 'killer instinct' does not cancel out other qualities necessary to excel in MMA.
“Another thing that people don't understand is that guys who shoot a lot develop a lot of strength in their hips. They are very flexible and strong. It's the type of strength you use to defend takedowns. The point is that Conor's jiu-jitsu isn't bad. (…) I see him as a good grappler. Certainly, he is not a grappler. It’s not natural, but he certainly puts a lot of focus on it,” he concluded.
McGregor will return to the Octagon to face Dustin Poirier on the first numbered card of the year. Even without competing for the lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg), the fight against the North American could guarantee the next challenger for the title, which, today, belongs to Khabib Nurmagomedov, retired since October, and great rival of 'Notório'.
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