Conor McGregor's First Coach Predicted His Success at a Young Age

Coach Phil Sutcliffe Recognized McGregor's Talent at Just 12 Years Old

Conor McGregor's rise to superstardom didn't happen overnight. In fact, his first coach, Phil Sutcliffe, saw something special in him when he was just a schoolboy. Sutcliffe, a double Olympian and renowned trainer, welcomed McGregor into his boxing club in Dublin, where the future UFC legend began his fighting journey. Sutcliffe recalls that even at the age of 12, McGregor's boxing ability was on par with other champions. He had a natural talent for reading his opponents and avoiding shots.

McGregor's Transition to MMA and Reunion with Sutcliffe

As McGregor grew older, his focus shifted from boxing to mixed martial arts (MMA). However, his bond with Sutcliffe remained strong. Despite initially being skeptical of MMA, Sutcliffe's perspective changed after seeing the dedication and hard work required in the sport. McGregor's fame and fortune skyrocketed, especially after his crossover clash with Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Following the bout, McGregor and Sutcliffe reunited, with Sutcliffe becoming a part of McGregor's MMA camp.

Passing on the Boxing Legacy to Conor Jr

Now, McGregor is not only a fighter but also a father. He is already passing on his knowledge and skills to his six-year-old son, Conor Jr. Sutcliffe, who sees himself in McGregor's coaching style, is impressed by Conor Jr's natural athleticism and boxing skills. The youngster's resemblance to his famous father is striking, and Sutcliffe believes that Conor Jr has what it takes to become a successful athlete in his own right.

McGregor's Comeback and Future in the UFC

At 35 years old, McGregor is currently working towards a comeback in the UFC. After suffering a leg injury in July 2021, he is eager to return to the octagon and prove himself once again. His next opponent is expected to be American fighter Michael Chandler, and McGregor's hunger and drive to win remain as strong as ever. Sutcliffe believes that McGregor has several more years left in his career and possesses the talent and skill to overcome any challenge that comes his way.

Overall, McGregor's journey from a young schoolboy to one of the most iconic fighters in the world has been nothing short of extraordinary. With the guidance of his first coach, Phil Sutcliffe, and the support of his family, McGregor continues to captivate audiences with his fighting prowess and determination to succeed.