What's next for Conor McGregor after UFC 246?

Conor McGregor eviscerated Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone in 40 seconds to remind those who might have forgotten that he is still a very bad man. Now more than ever, McGregor’s popularity extends far beyond the UFC, and his incredible performance has captivated the sports world. Though there is no timetable set for the “Notorious” one’s return, let's take a look at a few options, ranging from the likely to the unbelievable.

Jorge Masvidal

The obvious choice for McGregor is to remain at welterweight and immediately pursue a mega fight with Masvidal. Both McGregor and Masvidal have interest in facing each other, and the UFC would be foolish to pass on this fight now. These two have tremendous momentum, and it is a fight everyone wants to see. Should McGregor or Masvidal explore other options, most of which are risky, the UFC will miss out on the biggest money match of the year.

Khabib Nurmagomedov

Dana White said McGregor has done enough to earn his rematch against the man who dominated and submitted him. But Nurmagomedov has made it clear that he has no interest in resuming hostilities with McGregor, because of the ugly circumstances that came before and after their October 2018 fight.

The Nurmagomedov fight might happen, but it’s likely to come in 2021, after McGregor handles more lucrative business before taking such a risk.

Manny Pacquiao

McGregor’s unpredictability and pursuit of massive paydays could also see a return to the boxing ring, with Pacquiao as a preferred opponent. In the days leading up to UFC 246, McGregor stated he still wanted to compete in boxing and would relish a fight with Pacquiao at the soon-to-be-unveiled Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

McGregor/Pacquiao would be almost as lucrative as McGregor’s beating against Floyd Mayweather in 2017, and neither man would balk at a potential eight-figure payday.

WWE

McGregor has an ace-in-the-hole option that will yield maximum pay for minimum effort. Brock Lesnar and Ronda Rousey commanded a tremendous paycheck for their limited appearances in WWE, and even Cain Velasquez was paid a premium for his one-and-done appearance the previous Summer. Putting McGregor in a controlled angle would appease his ego, his wallet, and the WWE’s fascination with mixing their entertainers up against professional combatants.

Whether it’s the octagon, the boxing ring, or the squared circle of professional wrestling, McGregor mania is back in full swing and the sports world stands still waiting for his next move.

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UFC 246 is complete, but there's still plenty of MMA action to look forward to at BetAmerica!