Former UFC champion Conor McGregor sent shockwaves through the world of martial arts when he announced a whopping $200 million reward for a “double fight” with Terence Crawford, taking place under both MMA and boxing rules . Crawford initially turned down the offer due to concerns about getting kicked or elbowed. However, given the enticing figure, he began to reconsider his decision.

McGregor, who faced Floyd Mayweather in a historic boxing match in 2017, said the package would be huge, with the first fight being an MMA fight and the second a boxing fight. “Massive respect to Crawford! $100 million each, $200 million total,” he tweeted.

Crawford changes his mind

Crawford, a four-division boxing champion and considered one of the best fighters in the world, was initially hesitant about entering the MMA ring.

“I told Conor, ‘No way,’” he shared in an interview with Bernie the Boxer. “They called me and made me an offer, and Conor and I talked on the phone to figure it out. I told him, ‘I’m not going into the cage to get kicked and elbowed.’ Conor just laughed and said he respected that.”

Crawford also stressed that fighting in an MMA cage would put him at a disadvantage, similar to how McGregor would struggle if he fought in a boxing ring.

“I respect his sport , just like Conor respects mine,” he added. “ If I get in the cage, I’m at a disadvantage. But if Conor gets in the ring with me, he’s at a disadvantage too. But we’re going to make a lot of money.”

McGregor still waiting for the next match

McGregor has not fought since July 2021 after breaking his foot in a fight with Dustin Poirier. McGregor also recently pulled out of his rematch with Michael Chandler due to a toe injury, leaving his schedule up in the air.

Meanwhile, Crawford is eyeing another big fight with Mexican legend Canelo Alvarez, despite widespread rumours of Crawford retiring.

With the McGregor-Crawford confrontation, global martial arts fans will certainly witness an unprecedented event if the two reach an agreement.