There’s a saying, “real recognize real”. With two of the top combat sports stars in the world coming from Ireland, it’s hard to ignore the other. Instead of butting heads regarding their accomplishments, Conor McGregor and Katie Taylor have become inspirations for each other.
Their friendship, supporting one another from afar to at fight events, is admirable, considering their beginnings. McGregor, born in Dublin and raised in Crumlin, stuck close to boxing after fighting Floyd Mayweather in 2017. The 'Notorious' one continues to do so, with his TIDL Sports Recovery and Forged Irish Stout becoming the official sponsor for the Bray-born Taylor’s fight against Chantelle Cameron on May 20.
Cameron defends the undisputed super lightweight titles against Taylor inside the 3Arena, the first time Taylor has fought in Dublin as a pro. The fight airs on DAZN. McGregor will be at the bout, ready to act as an honorary cornerman.
WATCH: Katie Taylor vs. Chantelle Cameron, live on DAZN
“I’m incredibly proud and honored to support Ireland’s own, the pound-for-pound GOAT, Katie Taylor! Katie’s fight this weekend in Ireland is going to be one for the books, and I’ll be cheering her on,” McGregor said in a release. “Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing have done a fantastic job putting together an unforgettable event, and Irish Forged Stout is ready to take over fight week!"
It is the most unlikely of unions, as the calm and quiet Taylor doesn’t share the same circles as the loud and energetic McGregor. McGregor’s antics are shared worldwide, some positive and some negative. However, whatever happens outside the ring or octagon, their partnership is something to applaud.
McGregor praised Taylor in 2018 following her win over Cindy Serrano. He provided a pep talk pre-fight and celebrated with her post-fight. On social media, McGregor said, "This lady epitomizes hard work, passion, drive, and laser-like focus! A motivating inspiration… This lady is an asset and should be treated as such. We are watching. Great work team Katie!’”
It was just a taste of what was to come.
Taylor, a 2012 Olympic gold medalist, recently compared McGregor to one of the most influential fighters to put gloves on.
MORE: Katie Taylor fight reignites debate on 2 vs. 3-minute rounds
“He’s (McGregor) always been a fantastic support to me, but I think he’s just someone who’s actually transcended the sport,” Taylor stated via MMA Fighting. “He’s like, for me, the Muhammad Ali of the UFC. He’s just a fantastic athlete. A great businessman as well. But what he’s done in the sport and the UFC has been absolutely incredible, and I don’t think he’s celebrated as much as he should be here in Ireland. I think he is an absolute global superstar and just a phenomenal athlete, and he’s always been a complete gentleman towards me.”
Taylor revealed that they have a “fantastic” relationship, with her offering kind words to McGregor following his loss to Dustin Poirier in 2021. In a world full of fighters wanting something from the other, McGregor and Taylor have broken the mold.
McGregor’s support for Taylor included praising her main eventing Madison Square Garden against Amanda Serrano in 2022, a feat he accomplished in 2016. He attempted to foot the bill for an attempted rematch against Amanda Serrano, this time in Croke Park. However, there were issues with timing and Serrano backing out due to injury. The stadium, which can hold 82,000+ fans, is expected to be the home of Taylor in the next few months.
MORE: Katie Taylor's inspirational story and her impact in boxing
McGregor became a two-division champion when he beat Eddie Alvarez inside MSG. On May 20, Taylor can become a two-time undisputed champion in front of family and friends. Fighting in front of a passionate Irish crowd, McGregor praised Taylor, saying she’s “a credit to the nation of Ireland, and the sport of boxing is indebted to you forever!”
For God and for Country 🇮🇪🙏 @KatieTaylor! Our Champion called her shot AND BROUGHT BIG TIME BOXING BACK TO THE CAPITAL! You are a credit to the nation of Ireland and the sport of boxing is indebted to you forever! Let’s go @KatieTaylor! With you all the way! Proud to back you… pic.twitter.com/C3AunaCJQA
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) May 16, 2023
Two all-time greats have a friendship based on respect. While complete opposites, their paths to greatness are similar in ways. With a link that won't get broken, the Irish duo has helped shape combat sports for the better, whether providing fighters with better pay or women breaking down barriers and reaching a level ground with men in boxing.
An authentic Irish connection, like their careers and combat sports in general, their friendship continues to grow. Dublin will be the place to be as the two radiate greatness off the other.
