
With less than a fortnight to go until ‘The Notorious’ Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier meet in the Octagon for the third time, we take a look at the highly-anticipated upcoming UFC event.
At the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, UFC 264 will take place in just less than 14 days. With a sold-out capacity crowd expected - as sporting events resume to some sense of normality – this is definitely a night to get excited about.
As well as the main-event, there are a number of features across the night that will interest many UFC fans from all over the world. We’re expecting a number of extremely entertaining fights – UFC 264 could even be one of the best UFC events of the year.
In their deciding fight, Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier will step into the Octagon together for what seems like the last time together. There’s no doubt that both will want to come out on top in this rivalry, especially with the second fight taking place earlier this year.
Way back in 2014, The Notorious One was on the rise in the featherweight division, taking care of anyone that stood in his way. In that run, McGregor faced ‘The Diamond’, knocking him out in the first round of their clash, which set up McGregor’s pursuit of the featherweight and then lightweight belt.
Fast forward to January of 2021 (six months ago), and the two fighters – now comfortably in the lightweight division – crossed paths once again. This time round, it was Poirier who picked up the victory via knockout – considered an upset win at the time – and settled the score.
Almost immediately after the second fight, the two camps agreed that a trilogy fight would go ahead – and here we are. Now, both fighters will want to have their name as the winner of their rivalry in the history books. Who will win?
If the main event of UFC 264 wasn’t exciting enough for you, then the co-main event will surely fill that void. ‘Wonderboy’ Stephen Thompson is known for his entertaining fights inside the Octagon, with his top-quality stand-up style.
Meanwhile, welterweight Gilbert Burns will be looking to prove himself once more. A win at UFC 264 could maintain his pursuit of the UFC welterweight title – currently held by Kamaru Usman. Burns’ last fight was against the champion, and will be looking to bounce back after the loss back in February.
Conor McGregor isn’t the only Irish athlete competing on the night – youngster Sean O’Malley will also be in action as the first fight of the main card. In his bantamweight bout with Louis Smolka, O’Malley will look to continue his impressive start to his UFC career.
In the other main card fights, heavyweights Tai Tuivasa and Greg Hardy will clash in the Octagon in what could be an unexpected spectacular fight. Completing the main card lineup is a women’s bantamweight fight, involving Irene Aldana facing Yana Kunitskaya.
Unfortunately, Kevin Lee has had to withdraw from his preliminary card fight with Sean Brady due to injury. The fight looks to be rescheduled for an August UFC event – watch this space.
Thankfully, UFC 264 odds are now available – select your picks today! Will it be McGregor or Poirier that come out on top in the main event? You also have the opportunity to bet on all of the main card fights on July 10.
Head to 888sport – today’s leading online sportsbook for betting odds!
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