MMA news: Conor McGregor names Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney as his favourite footballer, Bellator ‘sign’ Sergio Pettis
Here is all the latest news from the world of mixed martial arts…
Conor McGregor is a big Kieran Tierney fan
McGregor says Arsenal defender Tierney is his favourite footballer.
The left-back, who joined the Gunners for £25million from Celtic in the summer, is hoping to nail down a regular starting place after recovering from injury.
Asked to name his favourite footballer, McGregor said: “Nowadays there's a young guy, Kieran Tierney.
"He was the captain of Celtic Football Club and he recently signed with Arsenal.
"He's been a phenomenal supporter of mine, he's been supporting me over the years. He's risen up and he's a phenomenal, phenomenal football player.
“I'm in conversation with him and he's a great guy, a good kid, and I'm rooting for him.”
Bellator 'sign' Sergio Pettis
Pettis has been a free agent since recently leaving UFC.
claim the 26-year-old has agreed a deal with Bellator, although he is yet to officially put pen to paper.
Pettis had a strong run in UFC, defeating the likes of Joseph Benavidez, Brandon Moreno, John Moraga, Chris Cariaso and Tyson Nam.
Justin Gaethje wants to face ‘coward’ McGregor in January
On Thursday, McGregor announced he will return to the octagon on January 18, despite announcing his retirement from MMA just seven months ago.
The Irishman’s opponent is yet to be revealed, but he has been called out by Gaethje.
He tweeted: “First a bantamweight now the man I defeated last. I can fight in January @TheNotoriousMMA Let’s show the world the little coward you are.
“I won’t take your neck when you give it to me and the fetal position is not an option.”