McGregor's trainer says his reputation is at stake in rematch with Diaz

McGregor (left) is a student of Kavanagh (right) at SBG Ireland. Photo: Reproduction

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The main fight of UFC 202, on the 20th, will not only represent a new chance for Conor McGregor defeat Nate diaz. The duel also has a special meaning for the Irish fighter's trainer, John Kavanagh, who believes his reputation will be at stake in the fight.

McGregor, who lost to Diaz in March via submission, will have the chance to return the result just five months after the defeat. Even though many fans complained that the rematch left the featherweight division, of which the Irishman is champion, at a standstill, Kavanagh highlighted that the fight is of enormous importance.

“This is a very important fight for Conor, but I also feel that my reputation as a trainer is at stake. This fight could change everything for all of us. Some viewers who are obsessed with weight classes and belts don't consider this fight to have much meaning. But for me, I feel like we're very lucky to have an immediate rematch. In many cases, fighters have to be patient to get their chance. Having the opportunity to reverse an unfavorable result just a few months later gives us the chance to show that 'win or learn' is not just a catchphrase”, declared Kavanagh, in a column for the website “The42.ie”.

UFC 202 will be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas (USA). McGregor will have the opportunity to return the only defeat he has ever suffered inside the Octagon. Diaz, for his part, is hoping to get his third win in a row.

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