Gilbert Burns and Conor McGregor (Image Credit Getty Image)
Nearly every combat sports athlete dreams of fighting Conor McGregor because he attracts millions of viewers, money, and professional and financial growth opportunities.

It’s not just the fighters who benefit; everyone involved, from promoters to individuals, stands to gain financially.

Meanwhile, Joaquin Buckley has shifted his focus to Gilbert Burns after realizing that a McGregor fight is unlikely for him. Let’s dive in to find out more details about it.

UFC Welterweight Star Focuses On Gilbert Burns Instead of Conor McGregor

After Buckley’s victory at UFC Fight Night, he publicly challenged McGregor, expressing his desire for a fight at 170lbs, as he believes Michael Chandler isn’t the suitable opponent for that weight class.

He suggested that McGregor’s size would be a better match for him, criticizing McGregor’s recent behavior towards Sean O’Malley and Ryan Garcia and daring McGregor to face him instead. He continued to criticize McGregor’s reputation and past actions.

However, during the post-fight press conference, he was asked about Dana White’s statement that he wouldn’t get McGregor, prompting him to shift his focus to a more realistic opponent, Gilbert Burns. He stated,

“Gilbert Burns I think is a beautiful fight… a beautiful match up.”

Indeed, fighting McGregor requires a compelling narrative and groundwork to create an event. While everyone may love the idea of fighting The Irishman, matchups with him need substance. In the case of Buckley, fighting McGregor lacks a significant storyline, as Buckley isn’t a big name with a superstar reputation to build a fight around.

Meanwhile, all eyes are on McGregor’s highly anticipated return set to take place at UFC 303 against Chandler. It will mark his comeback after three years, and fans who had lost hope of seeing him again following his brutal leg injury are now super pumped for his return.