The potential matchup between Conor McGregor and Mike Perry in a bare-knuckle fight has been a topic of much speculation and excitement within the combat sports community. After Perry’s impressive TKO victory over former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold in their bare-knuckle boxing bout at BKFC 41 in April 2023, the sight of Perry and McGregor respectfully facing off inside the BKFC ring further fueled fan interest in the matchup.
Perry, with a diverse combat sports background that includes MMA, professional boxing, and bare-knuckle boxing, boasts a record of 5-0 in bare-knuckle fights.
McGregor, on the other hand, has ventured into professional boxing with his iconic bout against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2017, in which he lost via TKO in the 10th round. McGregor, a former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion, is set to end his hiatus from combat sports with a welterweight bout against Michael Chandler at UFC 303.
In assessing their potential matchup in a bare-knuckle fight, Perry is seen as the favorite due to his experience and success in the sport. Known for his strong jab, dirty boxing skills, and close-range prowess, Perry presents a formidable challenge for McGregor. However, McGregor brings superior one-punch knockout power, versatile uppercuts, and strong long-range striking to the table.
Both fighters are recognized for their explosiveness and knockout ability, which could lead to a depletion of cardio in the later rounds. However, both Perry and McGregor are adept at pacing themselves and managing their stamina effectively.
Despite Perry’s natural fit for higher weight classes in bare-knuckle boxing, McGregor’s recent bulk-up means he won’t be at a significant weight disadvantage. Additionally, McGregor holds a three-inch reach advantage over Perry, which could play a crucial role in the fight.
For Perry to succeed, he must close the distance and engage in close-quarters combat, while McGregor’s strategy would likely involve utilizing his long-range striking to keep Perry at bay and potentially secure a knockout victory. McGregor’s extensive experience in high-pressure fights, along with his timing and striking ability, could give him an edge in the matchup.
Furthermore, if the fight were to take place in bare-knuckle MMA, McGregor’s underrated grappling skills could prove decisive in securing a dominant victory over Perry.
