Conor McGregor on “billion-dollar” Floyd Mayweather fight: “This is happening”

According to Conor McGregor, the next time he walks into a combat arena, he'll be making his entrance through ropes.

There's only one opponent the undisputed UFC lightweight champion has his sights set on and it's not the winner of Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Tony Ferguson for the interim strap at UFC 209. He also won't be trying to becoming the first three-weight world champion in the UFC next, so that rules out whoever wins in the rematch between Tyron Woodley and Stephen Thompson. Nor is it either of the Diaz brothers, Jose Aldo, Max Holloway, Cody Garbrandt, Anderson Silva or indeed any member of the UFC's current roster. That's right, you've guessed it. It's Floyd "Money" Mayweather - with an emphasis on that middle word.     Speaking at his PPV interview 'An Experience with Conor McGregor' in a sold-out Eventcity in Manchester on Saturday night, McGregor confirmed that the crossover superfight spectacle that was initially laughed off when it was first rumoured all those moons ago is the only fight he wants next. While that lacklustre "Fight of the Century" between Mayweather and Manny Pacquaio set the purse record, McGregor believes when it's him standing across from the boxing great, the record will be smashed. He claimed that it would be the first ever "billion dollar fight."

"Me and Floyd have got to get together and figure this out and come up with a number. This is happening." "That fight is more than just being explored. There's a lot of steps, but it's the fight to make. It's the fight I want."

So when can we expect this money-spewing circus act? McGregor believes it will be booked for either the end of 2017 or the beginning of 2018. This would of course mean that he would not compete inside the Octagon during this period, but he believes all this time off won't affect his skill-set as a mixed martial artist.

"I'm 28 years of age. I'm a young pup. I'm not even in my prime yet. The Floyd situation will happen and then I'll roll back in."

McGregor added that he feels the fight will happen with or without the UFC on board, although he admitted the process would be a lot smoother if he had their backing.   Catch up with the latest 888sport Football Friday Live.