One of the top MMA fighters in the world is close to returning to the sport now that his legal issues are cleared up, and that’s the basis of today’s MMA odds and ends, along with one notable fight announcement.
Conor McGregor Agrees To Plea Deal, Avoids Jail Time
Former UFC lightweight and featherweight champion Conor McGregor has agreed to a plea deal that will keep him out of jail in respect to the alleged bus attack that took place back at UFC 223 in April. MMAjunkie.com has the full report. McGregor will have to take anger management classes, complete some community service and pay for damages to the bus, but he will not go to prison. This is great news for the UFC, as it means McGregor is free to return and fight in the Octagon before the end of the year. Therefore it’s no surprise that UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov called out McGregor for a fight at UFC 230 this November in New York City, though it’s been rumored the UFC would rather do a fight with McGregor as the headliner for UFC 229 this October in Las Vegas. Regardless of when he returns, it’s clear that McGregor is not far away from finally fighting again, and his return to the sport is great for everyone. Let’s just hope that this time around McGregor can keep himself in check.
Neil Magny vs. Alex Oliveira Added To UFC Fight Night 137
A welterweight bout between Neil Magny and Alex Oliveira will take place at UFC Fight Night 137, which takes place Saturday, September 22 at Ginasio do Ibirapuera in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The bout was announced by Combate. Magny (21-6) has won his last two fights and in his most recent outing knocked out Craig White in brutal fashion. Although Magny has lost to some of the best fighters in the welterweight division and has never been able to climb to the title picture, his win over Kelvin Gastelum from a few years ago looks really good right now. Oliveira (19-4, 1 NC) has only lost one fight in his last seven outings and is coming off of a vicious submission win over Carlos Condt. Both guys are awesome fighters who are known for putting on good fights, though both men have flaws in their defense. It should be a very competitive bout but based on his success in the UFC I expect Magny to open up as the favorite.
