When Conor McGregor returns at UFC 257 later this much, it will very much be a must-see PPV event once again kicking off the year. Not unlike another McGregor-helmed card, last January’s UFC 246.
Over the years the promotional genius of Conor McGregor has continually evolved. And with that evolution, the Irish star’s persona and popularity grew to unimaginable proportions. McGregor the showman, coupled with his in-cage performances, propelled him to become the most popular combat sports athlete on the planet. Quite possibly the most popular athlete period. It’s as if McGregor the MMA fighter is only secondary to McGregor the showman. With the removal of the fans and the rawness of how the sport is being presented right now, all indications are that the atmosphere of Fight Island is conducive to McGregor performing better than he ever has.
Even if a small handful of fans have been granted admittance to the newly completed Etihad Arena on Fight Island, it’s unlikely to be a distraction for the “Notorious” McGregor. And if his growth is anything like what was briefly glimpsed a year ago, he’s likely to shine in his rematch with a gritty Dustin Poirier — a fighter who has grown in his own right since the pair’s first meeting years ago at featherweight.
Be sure to check out the video below for an early preview of Conor McGregor’s return at UFC 257. The event takes place January 23, 2021 at the Etihad Arena on Fight Island (Yas Island), Abu Dhabi.
