McGregor makes ‘god of boxing’ claim ahead of big fight

Irish MMA star Conor McGregor has declared he will be a “god of boxing” after his much-anticipated fight with Floyd Mayweather Jr in Las Vegas.

The pair will go head-to-head in Sin City on Saturday 26 August in a bout many are declaring a serious mis-match.

McGregor may be a two-weight UFC champion, but the fight will be his first as a boxer – while Mayweather’s track record of 49 fights unbeaten speaks for itself.

With customary self-confidence, McGregor believes he can shock the world.

“The critics say that Floyd has been there before. They discredit my training, my skills, my accomplishments,” the 29-year-old Dubliner said.

“This isn't new to me though, just like boxing isn't new to me. I am no stranger to being the underdog on paper. I am a seasoned veteran and I am confident that I am the better man.

“After Saturday August 26, I will be a god of boxing.”

Meanwhile, Mayweather is looking to move to 50-0 and surpass Rocky Marciano’s unbeaten record.

Now aged 40, he has previously seen off contenders like Oscar De La Hoya, Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton.

Mayweather’s flawless record has not fazed McGregor though, ahead of what he is billing as “the biggest fight of all time”.

“The story of the fight will be waiting to see who takes a step back first,” he said.

“We all know Floyd is a great defensive boxer and he isn’t going to keep coming forward like he says. If he does, it’s going to be a quick night for me.”

McGregor added: “This camp has been amazing. I’m getting better by the day, more alert, quicker.

“My weight is at a good place, but I'm going to be a much bigger man than Floyd when I we step in the ring for the fight and I think that makes a difference.

“It means the world to have fans travelling from Ireland and all over the world for this fight. This is the biggest fight of all time and we owe them a hell of a show.”