Conor McGregor was in the audience last night at the much-anticipated boxing bout between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. The two heavyweights squared off in front of 96000 fans inside the Wembley stadium. Unfortunately, it was a tragic night for Joshua who got flatlined by the IBF heavyweight champion.
Dubois dominated the fight from the start by knocking down Joshua four times in the first four rounds. The fight ended in the fifth round after Dubois connected a massive right to AJ’s jaw. At 34 years old, It was Joshua’s most devastating loss which started a conversation about his retirement. Conor McGregor was asked about this in an interview and the ‘Notorious’ gave a rather fierce reply.
AJ is number one. This is a stadium show here in AD, and he’s a legend forever. Sure. He had… he smacked him back, he stood his ground and smacked him back. And then he went forward and got caught. It’s only boxing. You get caught; you catch someone. Of course, he can come back for sure.
Conor McGregor via post-fight interview at Anthony Joshua vs. Daniel Dubois
It was a surprise reaction given that McGregor celebrated whenever Anthony Joshua was dropped by Dubois. Those videos have gone viral, and fans expect the ‘Mystic Mac’ to win big by betting against Joshua. McGregor is a big boxing fan and has previously supported AJ.
Conor McGregor doesn’t think Anthony Joshua should retire after his loss tonight:
“AJ is number one… he’s a legend forever…
It’s only boxing. You get caught, you catch someone. Of course he can come back!”
🎥 YT / The Stomping Ground #Boxing #JoshuaDubois pic.twitter.com/7yWkht3TPZ
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) September 22, 2024
McGregor was present when Anthony Joshua famously knocked out Robert Helenius. The former UFC double champion made headlines after forcing AJ to drink his Irish Stout. McGregor later denied the rumors, saying Joshua asked him for a drink. Nonetheless, this time Joshua did not get a result to celebrate.
Anthony Joshua opens up about retirement rumors after devastating knockout
Anthony Joshua fought remarkably poorly in his fight against Daniel Dubois, finding it difficult to maintain control and rhythm. He was able to land very few and failed to create a reliable jab or take advantage of opportunities. Joshua appeared uneasy and was unable to withstand Dubois’s constant pressure, even with his experience.
Dubois’ strong blows caused Anthony Joshua’s defense to break down. It was clear that he lacked confidence and sharpness. During the post-fight presser, AJ showed maturity and accepted his faults. He thanked the fans and talked about making a comeback soon.
We took a shot at success and we came up short, unfortunately…we trying to create history for British boxing and I think we are doing that…Do I still wanna continue fighting? Of course, I’m gonna continue fighting.
Anthony Joshua via post-fight press conference
Joshua stated that he’s a warrior and would not be down after one loss. According to his promoter Eddie Hearn, AJ will most probably exercise that rematch clause. On the other hand, Dubois has enough momentum to get a potential rematch with Oleksandr Usyk or fight Tyson Fury going forward.
