UFC superstar Conor McGregor has demonstrated his support for British boxer Anthony Joshua ahead of his fight against Robert Helenius at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday, News About Nigeria gathered.
McGregor who is known for his vocal presence in combat sports, is set to sponsor the event, and he didn’t miss the chance to show appreciation for Joshua’s qualities.
Joshua’s initial opponent, Dillian Whyte, was ruled out after failing a drug test, leading to the late replacement by Helenius.
In response to Joshua’s appreciation for the gift of ‘Forged Irish Stout’ sent by McGregor, the Nigerian-born British boxer jokingly requested free drinks if he ever visited McGregor’s pub in Ireland.
In a Twitter post, McGregor praised Joshua, describing him as the embodiment of class, quality, and loyalty.
This public show of support continues the budding relationship between the two fighters who although, trade their skills in different sports. This is even more interesting as they share the same promoter, Eddie Hearn.
Earlier this year, McGregor aimed to help Irish boxer Katie Taylor headline a major event at Croke Park, but circumstances led to Taylor fighting Chantelle Cameron at the 3Arena in Dublin instead.
McGregor sponsored the show and was ringside for Taylor’s match, and he is expected to attend her upcoming bout in November as well.
Meanwhile, earlier on Tuesday, the Matchroom Boxing promoter Hearn and talkSPORT host renewed hostilities following their first fiery clash earlier this year.
It all started again when Hearn joined White and Jordan on Friday as they broadcast from the Joshua vs Helenius weigh-in ahead of this weekend’s fight.
Hearn was forceful in getting his point of view across as he said: “When we talk about an agenda – you’re contacting Robert Smith [British Boxing Board of Control chief] to try and find out information to prepare yourself to attack me on the show on Tuesday.”
Jordan struggled to get a word in, but replied: “Not true.”
