Conor McGregor was sensationally knocked out in the second round of his fight with Dustin Poirier at UFC 257.
‘The Notorious’ had not fought since his 40-second of blowout against Donald Cerrone last January, and was blasted away by Poirier in their rematch on Fight Island.
It is the first time he has ever been knocked out in his career.
Poirier knew he had McGregor in trouble when a short right uppercut dropped the former two-weight world champion as blood trickled from his nose – before the American moved in to finish the fight.
“We know [Conor McGregor] is one of the best counter-punchers in the game. But I just don’t give a f***,” said Poirier.
“Conor has taken the result very professionally, we are one and one now so maybe we do it again.”
The Notorious’ failed to meet his 60-second knockout prediction, instead finding himself on his backside as Poirier shot in for a takedown.
With his back on the cage, McGregor was forced to deal with ‘The Diamond’ from grinding him on the side – perhaps hoping to deplete his energy tank.
The first round was scrappy until the last 90 seconds, with McGregor narrowly missing out on a huge left hand.
Poirier then landed a big right hand of his own – pointing to McGregor as he did so – before suffering a barrage of punches.
Both men appeared fatigued at the end of the round, with Poirier’s work on the fence seemingly tiring him out as much as it did to McGregor.
‘The Diamond’ enjoyed success in the striking exchanges and appeared to take confidence from it as he opened up with a series of low leg kicks to McGregor’s right leg.
