McGregor returns vs. Cerrone at UFC 246
LAS VEGAS » Conor McGregor became a two-division UFC champion because he was a tremendous fighter. He became the biggest mixed martial artist in the world only because he talked an even bigger game.
But after three rough years inside and outside the cage, McGregor has changed his public approach to his profession for his comeback fight in Las Vegas this week.
He has promoted his meeting with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone at UFC 246 on Saturday night with compliments for his opponent mixed with humble self-effacement. Now a father of two, McGregor (21-4) claims he is calmer and more centered than the rampaging superstar who has had more arrests (at least three) than sporting victories (zero) since 2016.
“Sometimes it’s tough, but I’m very grateful for the position I’m in,” McGregor said.
The world will soon find out whether McGregor is the same fighter now that his trash talk has been recycled into good vibes.
The Budweiser-drinking, Harley-riding Cerrone (36-13) has never been big on verbal competition during his 14-year professional MMA career, anyway. He is more interested in standing in the center of the cage and trading shots with McGregor — and the Irish ex-champion says he is eager to play that game.
They’re meeting Saturday as welterweights, a full 15 pounds above lightweight. McGregor has long since earned Cerrone’s respect by “doing exactly what he said he was going to do.”
“He grew the sport so well,” Cerrone said. “The dude is a superstar. He brings a lot of eyes, a lot of attention . ... He has such an awesome platform. Why not be a good role model? Why not be a good person? It’s the same thing I’ve been preaching the whole time. It’s good to see him taking the right path. I like it.”
Etienne returning to Clemson
CLEMSON, S.C. » Two-time Atlantic Coast Conference player of the year Travis Etienne is returning to Clemson for his senior season. Etienne, the 5-foot-10, 210-pound junior running back from Jennings, La., announced his decision on social media.
Etienne’s teammate, cornerback A.J. Terrell, said he was giving up his final year in college to enter the NFL draft.
Etienne became Clemson’s all-time rushing leader Monday when he surpassed the old mark after gaining 78 yards in his team’s 42-25 loss to LSU.
Bouchard’s bid for Australian ends in qualifying
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA » It was in the shadows of the main show courts at Melbourne Park, days before the first Grand Slam tournament of the season is set to begin in earnest, and Eugenie Bouchard’s stay at the Australian Open was over in the last round of qualifying.
The 2014 Wimbledon runner-up, once as high as No. 5 in the rankings, has had a long slide down to No. 211.
The 25-year-old Canadian, with a spot in the main draw on the line, lost 6-4, 6-3 to Martina Trevisan, a 26-year-old Italian who now will make her debut at a Grand Slam tournament.
Pulisic likely out until mid-Feb.
LONDON » Christian Pulisic’s adductor injury appears likely to keep him out of Chelsea’s lineup until mid-February.
The 21-year-old American attacker has not played since a 1-1 draw at Brighton on New Year’s Day.
Pulisic has six goals and six assists in all competitions this season, including a hat trick in a league match at Burnley.
Top-ranked Barty advances
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA » World No. 1 Ash Barty came from a set down to beat American Danielle Collins 3-6, 6-1, 7-6 (5) in the Adelaide International semifinals on Friday.
Barty will meet world No. 24 Dayana Yastremska in Saturday’s final after the 19-year-old Ukrainian beat Aryna Sabalenka 6-4 7-6 (4).