KEY POINTS

  • Conor vs Cowboy happens in less than a week
  • Conor McGregor is in the best shape of his career
  • Conor bulked up from 155 to 170

The best version of Conor McGregor conditioning-wise will be exhibited when he returns to the Octagon on Saturday according to UFC President Dana White.

Speaking with TMZ Sports, White said that it was the UFC Doctor who believes that the former Featherweight and Lightweight Champion is in the best shape of his fighting career.

“The UFC doctor is actually saying he thinks Conor's in the best shape he's ever seen him in,” White said. "Conor and I have not seen each other face-to-face yet, but we have been texting and I'm hearing that he's in phenomenal shape right now. Head seems to be in the right place."

In less than a week, the Notorious will be in uncharted territory when he squares off against Donald Cerrone at 170 lbs. His last fight was staged in October 2018 where he lost to Khabib Nurmagomedov at 155.

But whilst impressed with the Irish superstar’s current physique, White still believes that Cowboy – the winningest UFC fighter to date - could put up a worthy competition as opposed to the predictions and prices offered in odds that have Conor as the runaway winner of the bout.

"I think that the level of disrespect shown to Cowboy Cerrone by the media, a lot of the fans and definitely the sportsbooks in Las Vegas is insanity,” White said. "This is the type of fight that Cowboy Cerrone is an absolute spoiler in. This is his deal. These are the type of fights he likes to be in."

Conor McGregor and Donald Cerrone will headline UFC 246 on the 18th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor of Ireland laughs after the first round against Khabib Nurmagomedov of Russia in their UFC lightweight championship bout during the UFC 229 event inside T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Oct. 6, 2018. Harry How/Getty Images