Ranking Conor McGregors' Next Opponent From Least To Most Likely
Who'll be blessed with a 'red panty night' next?
Fighting Conor McGregor has almost become a more cherished prize than winning an actual UFC title.
After thrashing Donald Cerrone in just 40 seconds, the world is once more Conor McGregor's oyster and the brash Irishman is calling the shots.
Barely a week goes by without some rumour of who the former two-weight world champion is thinking of fighting next, but after his grand return at UFC 246 was a success, the list has narrowed considerably.
The special few have made their case heard immediately following the card as to why they should get the shot. Luckily, each one is a fantastic matchup that is sure to deliver a firefight in the cage and a slew of trash talk leading up to it.
As the game of politics begins in the background away from public eyes through matchmaking meetings and text messages, let's go through each one of the most likely candidates who'll try to survive the patented left hand of 'The Notorious' next.
Just like McGregor's newest nose-breaking shoulder technique, some of the opponents on offer may surprise you.
8. Manny Pacquiao
From completely out of left-field, it was recently revealed McGregor and boxing legend Manny Pacquiao almost locked in a matchup last year, and both men have been vocal about seriously competing.
Manny even sent a video message wishing McGregor well in his fight with Cerrone before calling the Irishman out.
The BWAA's fighter of the decade for the 2000s, Manny has remained active in boxing at the ripe age of 41 and keeps on winning fights. Like McGregor, he also came up short in his fight opposite Floyd Mayweather in a bitterly disappointing bout, that ultimately became the greatest-selling PPV of all time.
When really considering the option though, this fight has little chance of happening outside of excited whispers.
McGregor would much rather take on Floyd and avenge his loss than take a fight with Manny. It just seems like too much of a high risk/low reward venture than other choices up for grabs.
McGregor also seems set at staying in the Octagon, at least while Zuffa boxing lies dormant, and heading back into the boxing realm where 'Pac-man' gains the advantage is risky territory.
It would be a fun ride, and both men would make yet more insane amounts of cash, but it is by far the least plausible next move for Conor.
Never say never, however.