18-year-old Conor McGregor’s legendary promise to Bruce Buffer revealed

Legendary UFC commentator Bruce Buffer talks about his first meeting with Conor McGregor long before his UFC debut.

18-year-old Conor McGregor’s legendary promise to Bruce Buffer revealed

Bruce Buffer talks about meeting Conor McGregor (via Imago/X)

Conor McGregor is undoubtedly the biggest superstar to ever step into the UFC octagon, known worldwide for his unmatched charisma. ‘The Notorious’ has achieved everything that the UFC had to offer and changed the game altogether with his bold moves. However, the fighter had a very humble start, but according to the legendary announcer Bruce Buffer, McGregor always believed in himself.

Buffer recently did a podcast with rising lightweight prospect Paddy Pimblett, where they discussed a variety of topics. During the conversation, the legendary announcer talked about Conor McGregor and drew similarities with Pimblett in terms of charisma. While talking in detail, Buffer shared an old story of how he met McGregor for the first time in Ireland years ago.

When I first met Conor McGregor in Ireland, when we did our first show in Ireland, he was like 18 or 19, and this kid came up to me with no facial hair, no nothing, saying, ‘My name is Conor McGregor, remember me — I’m gonna be champion someday.’ And then, all of a sudden, he’s fighting in the UFC.

Bruce Buffer said via IT’S TIME Podcast 

McGregor’s journey from a humble plumber to UFC champion is a story of self-belief and relentless dedication. Born in Ireland, McGregor worked as a plumber while chasing his dream of becoming a fighter, often training tirelessly. His UFC debut took place in 2013, and his rise was meteoric, winning the belt by beating Jose Aldo at UFC 194. 

Following that, McGregor became the first ever double champion in UFC history, which further boosted his popularity and legacy. He became the first fighter whom Bruce Buffer announced as the ‘The One, The only’. Later, Jon Jones and Alex Pereira joined the club. Buffer’s announcement of McGregor is still remembered as iconic as ever.

However, it’s now been more than three years since Buffer had the chance to present McGregor, who hasn’t fought. Last year, several rumors swirled around McGregor’s potential comeback, however, no updates have come up recently. On top of that, Dana White’s silence on the matter has caused many to lose faith in McGregor’s dream comeback. 

Is Conor McGregor never coming back?

Conor McGregor‘s comeback initially halted after he injured his toe before UFC 303, where he was supposed to fight Michael Chandler. Following that, the Irishman has made several comments about coming back, engaging in online beefs with different fighters. In the midst of all that, the fighter has been part of controversies, such as the s*xual assault civil lawsuit. 

Debate around Conor McGregor's comeback
Debate around Conor McGregor’s comeback (via X)

Despite everything, discussions about Conor McGregor’s comeback remain constant. Recently, Joe Rogan hosted former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria, and the topic naturally came up. When asked about McGregor’s return, the Georgian-Spanish fighter didn’t mince words, offering a direct and candid response.

He has not come back yet. If he really wanted to, he would have been back in the gym, had a fight scheduled, drug tested, clean, training, gone through a camp, had a fight….His toe is f****, his chin is f****, his body is f*****. With that much parties and drugs and all that, you’re gonna have to pay that price at some point…You are paying the price with your health which is the dumbest thing you can do in your entire life.

Ilia Topuria via JRE MMA Show #166

McGregor’s battles with alcoholism have been widely discussed, often linked to his erratic behavior and controversial public appearances. Footage of him drinking excessively and partying sparked headlines, especially considering his obligations as a high-level professional. Alongside alcohol, rumors of drug use have circulated, fueled by online rants, public incidents, and noticeable changes in appearance.