5 fighters who successfully stole the show on a Conor McGregor fight card
Conor McGregor is the greatest attraction in MMA history. Thus, his fights are high-profile affairs which headline fight cards that routinely break UFC records. The Irishman's brand of brash trash talk and showmanship draws in droves of spectators from the casual fanbase. Even celebrities are known to leave their Hollywood commitments to attend fight cards headlined by 'The Notorious'.
Outside the octagon, Conor McGregor's vicious verbal assault generates a level of hype for his fights that remain unmatched in the sport. Inside the octagon, he is an exciting counter-striker who sprints across the cage to apply immediate pressure on his foes, forcing mistakes out of them and countering their every maneuver. He chases the finish every single time, rarely coasting to a safe decision win.
Yet, there have been other fighters who have overshadowed Conor McGregor's performances on his own fight cards. Some were fighters taking part in bouts below the Irishman's billing, while others were fighters who 'The Notorious' himself was facing. This list examines five fighters who stole the show from Conor McGregor on his own fight cards.
#5. Robbie Lawler - UFC 189
Before Conor McGregor's true ascension to superstardom, the Irishman was given a chance to impress the UFC brass by headlining his first pay-per-view event. UFC 189, originally scheduled to feature a bout between him and then-reigning featherweight champion Jose Aldo, was later main-evented by a matchup between 'The Notorious' and multiple-time title contender Chad Mendes.
While Conor McGregor was praised for his ability to overcome adversity en route to a definitive TKO win in the dying seconds of the second round, it was the co-main event of UFC 189 that captured the hearts of spectators.
Robbie Lawler and Rory MacDonald went to war 5 years ago today at UFC 189 https://t.co/ZCLwr5EjRM
Then UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler faced off against a foe many believed was destined to capture UFC gold: Rory MacDonald. A protege of Georges St-Pierre, MacDonald proved his standing as a top contender by challenging Lawler in a bloody, violent bout that is often regarded as the greatest UFC fight of all-time.
'Ruthless' managed to claim a fifth-round TKO win after the challenger crumpled in a matchup that, years later, remains the measuring stick for Fight of the Year contenders.