MMA

Conor McGregor fulfils life-long ambition ahead of UFC return

Conor McGregor fulfils life-long ambition as UFC superstar delights in being awarded Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt: ’20 years of hard work!’

  • Conor McGregor has fulfilled a lifelong ambition 
  • The Irishman was awarded his BJJ black belt 
  • McGregor has worked towards the belt for 20 years 

Ten years ago, Conor McGregor outlined his desire to win two world titles, make $25million and receive a black belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.

Now, the UFC superstar has ticked off all three achievements. 

On Monday night, McGregor, 34, fulfilled his life-long ambition of earning his black belt after being awarded the prestigious honour by his coach, John Kavanagh.

McGregor posted photos of a ceremony at SBG Ireland’s Dublin gym, where Kavanagh, his long-term coach, handed him the black belt – the highest rank a jiu jitsu practitioner can achieve. 

The Notorious tore through the featherweight and lightweight divisions with his lethal striking ability, with many fans and pundits overlooking his wrestling and grappling qualities.

Conor McGregor was awarded his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt on Monday night

The UFC superstar was given the prestigious belt by his trainer and friend, John Kavanagh

McGregor won his brown belt in 2014 and, after nine years of hard graft, can now say he is accomplished in all facets of fighting after receiving his black belt.

‘Received my black belt tonight from my coach, friend, and mentor, Coach [John] Kavanagh of SBG Ireland!’ McGregor posted on Instagram. 

’20 years of hard work! Thank you John for everything over the years, and to all of my team mates throughout this incredible jiu jitsu journey!

‘Thank you all so much from the bottom of my heart! A Brazilian jiu jitsu black belt, wow! Praise be to God and then Helio. I’ll be in the Gi in it tomorrow Helio, I promise, and I cannot wait!! What a buzz.’ 

McGregor later shared a video of the ceremony alongside the caption ‘Thank you John, means the world!’

McGregor has long sought to earn his black belt after winning two UFC world titles

An emotional Kavanagh said during the ceremony: ‘It’s not normal to give out a belt during the no-gi class, but nothing about this man’s career or life has been normal.

‘An incredible exponent of martial arts his whole life, he obviously excelled in the professional area but for me it’s his interest and passion about it day-to-day. 

‘Whether it’s working with a new guy, or training with pros it’s a huge pleasure for me to give long-time student, but also one of my best friends.’

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