Conor McGregor praised a historic moment in bare-knuckle boxing over the weekend. The BKFC co-owner watched from home as his promotion delivered an unforgettable night. Over 18,000 fans packed the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for BKFC KnuckleMania VI. The crowd witnessed Andrei Arlovski secure a two-sport world championship with a brutal win over Ben Rothwell in the main event.
Andrei Arlovski sends message to cancer fighters
After the fight, Andrei Arlovski addressed fans currently battling cancer. The former UFC heavyweight champion has survived the disease three times. “If you are fighting cancer, don’t give up,” Arlovski said. “I am proof. Three-time survivor. Keep fighting. Life is beautiful.”
Conor McGregor shared his admiration for Arlovski on Instagram. “Andrei Arlovski is a hero! He represents courage and perseverance,” McGregor wrote. “He overcame cancer three times and now holds the BKFC heavyweight title.”
McGregor eyes long-awaited return
Conor McGregor has not competed since breaking his leg in the trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. The 37-year-old hopes to return at the UFC White House event in June. Before that, he must finalize a new deal with the UFC. His previous contract became obsolete after the promotion signed a $7.7 billion broadcast deal with Paramount, ending the pay-per-view system.
“I will begin negotiations with the UFC in February,” McGregor said. “The new deal with Paramount increased profits fourfold. My old contract depended on PPV sales, which no longer exist. I generated the highest PPV numbers in history. I deserve a new agreement.”
McGregor emphasized his eagerness to complete the negotiations and make a triumphant comeback. “I am very interested to see how the talks unfold,” he said, reinforcing his focus on returning to competition.
