UFC star and part-owner of BKFC Conor McGregor has hinted that he might begin competing in his own promotion.
During a recent post promoting the fight between flyweight champion Christine Ferea and Jade Masson Hong, Conor made a comment about fighting co-main event fighter Jeremy Stephens–who was set to face Bobby Taylor. “Me and ‘Who the f**k’ is an exciting bare knuckle fight down the line 100%,” McGregor said.
The two fighters have had a long time. The rivalry took place during a pre-fight press conference after McGregor was asked about the hardest fight available to him. Stephens spoke up and promised he was the toughest challenge as the hardest-hitting featherweight whose punches produced knockouts where “people don’t f*cking move.” McGregor fired back, “Who the f*ck is that guy?” which was followed by a roar.
Eight years later, Stephens is about to make his second appearance as a bare-knuckle fighter at BKFC 65 on Friday. The fighter is thrilled about McGregor’s statement and is eager to get into the cage with McGregor.
“I got a boss now in Conor McGregor, who is writing my checks,” Stephens told MMA Fighting. “I could potentially be fighting my own boss! There’s a lot of people out there who want that Conor fight, but if he was ever to come over to bare-knuckle, I’m on a hot streak, get the ball f*cking rolling. I would love to be that f*cking guy to welcome him to bare-knuckle.
“I don’t get tired. And I can take a f*cking shot. I’ve been in the f*cking game. I would love to max out that opportunity and put myself into those opportunities. Day by day, brick by brick, it will come.”
“Honestly, [I’m] grateful,” Stephens said. “Anything Conor touches turns to gold. A lot of eyes on Conor. Conor is the type of guy that would get into bare-knuckle. I believe it. He’s from the streets as well and I’m sure he’s been in some bare-knuckle [fights] before getting there. He believes in it. It takes a lot of psychotic skills. If we can sign up more guys like me, him, and I think bare-knuckle is big, big business.”
The Irishman’s interference with BKFC has brought more fame and publicity for the promotion. The fighter has attended some live events, and his intention to compete before the end of his career will most likely bring a huge sum of money for the promotion.
“Perfect story, but honestly, credit to Conor and all that, but if he ever got in there with me, I’d break his f*cking neck,” Stephens said. “I’d get a big f*cking fat check that would just relieve all my anxiety that I get to go in there and plaster someone like him. In due time.
“My performances speak for themselves. I continue to get better. This is what f*cking 38 looks like. I’m not on f*cking drugs. I’m not out here breaking my bones or this and that. I’ve continued to stay healthy. I’ve continued to put myself into position. If that ever came, I’d break his f*cking neck and I’d put him out. Bare-knuckle would be the spot to do it.”
Although no date has been set yet for the rivalry, Stephens is eager for the throw. He praises McGregor for his efforts in the promotion and is ready to meet the UFC champ whenever he is ready.
