“You’re Pretty Exceptional on the Ground…”: After 15 Years of Training in SBG Ireland Conor McGregor Finally Receives His BJJ Black Belt, Leaving BJJ GOAT Gordon Ryan and Fans in Awe

Only a select few fighters have reached the pinnacle of success and garnered the level of fame achieved by former Lightweight champion Conor McGregor. From the moment he entered the Octagon, McGregor’s trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. Even now, despite his absence from the Octagon for nearly two years, Conor McGregor remains the most prominent figure in the sport. However, ‘The Notorious’ is looking to make a comeback in the realm of UFC.

The highly anticipated fight between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor appears to be drawing nearer. However, uncertainties surrounding USADA hang over McGregor. Amidst all the chaos, “The Irishman” has recently shared a moment on his Instagram channel that has left BJJ GOAT Gordon Ryan and fans in awe.

Fans react to Conor McGregor obtaining a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The 35-year-old who is expected to fight Chandler in the coming December has shared a pot on his Instagram account stating that he has finally obtained his black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. He captioned, “Received my black belt tonight from my coach, friend, and mentor, @coach_kavanagh of @sbgireland! 20 years of hard work! Thank you John for everything over the years, and to all of my teammates throughout this incredible jiu-jitsu journey! Thank you all so much from the bottom of my heart! A Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, wow! Praise be to God and then Helio. I’ll be in the Gi in it tomorrow Helio, I promise, and I cannot wait!! What a buzz”. Upon witnessing this, fans flocked to his Instagram account to express their opinions.

TUF 31 winner Brad Katona and Brazilian jiu-jitsu GOAT Gordon Ryan shared their thoughts on McGregor’s accomplishments, both offering praise. Gordon Ryan stated, “Well deserved. Despite what people say, you’re pretty exceptional on the ground, especially with MMA being your main focus.” Meanwhile, Brad Katona couldn’t help but commend McGregor, saying, “A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step. Congrats and well-deserved champ.”

The majority of fans displayed respect and extended congratulations to McGregor.

• Funny how people think you ain’t workin… can’t wait for the comeback.
• Gonna see conor flying guillotine Chandler
• About time! Never forget that escape against Chad
• Let’s see them try to take you down now champ congrats

A portion of the fans expressed criticism and were observed berating McGregor.

• Stop the coke and get back in that Octagon
• Black belt & never once submitted an opponent. But has been tapped out by two of the most basic chokes 
• wow the disrespect

Read More: Conor McGregor to Fight in 2023 December Reveals MMA Insider as Plans Show UFC Star’s Massive Comeback Already in the Works

The diverse fan reactions suggest excitement at witnessing McGregor as a black belt, with even notable figures like Katona and Ryan offering their congratulations. However, there were also skeptical fans regarding McGregor’s approach.

Conor McGregor’s ground game and upcoming bout against Michael Chandler

McGregor, renowned for his devastating knockout abilities, hasn’t showcased his grappling skills frequently throughout his MMA journey. With just a single submission victory out of his 22 professional wins, and none in his UFC career, his ground game has remained relatively unexplored. Currently slated to go head-to-head with fellow “Ultimate Fighter 31” coach Michael Chandler, the exact date of their encounter remains undisclosed. It’s worth noting that the Irishman has not yet re-entered the USADA drug testing pool, adding uncertainty to the timing of this highly anticipated bout.

Conor McGregor’s serious lack of momentum, primarily due to his participation in only three fights over the past five years, looms as the foremost factor working greatly against him. Following his defeat to Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in 2018.

McGregor returned to action with a swift and decisive victory over the aging Donald Cerrone, marking his sole triumph since 2016. This victory is widely regarded as one of the easiest matchups he has encountered in his career. Should he find himself pitted against the more active Michael Chandler in a potential bout, the effects of ring rust are bound to come into play. Chandler has maintained a considerably higher level of activity over the past two years, making McGregor’s lack of fights a significant disadvantage in this potential matchup.

Watch this Story: “That’s Absolute Class” – Conor McGregor Impresses Fans with His Gesture for Coach Kavanagh Despite Being on a Date With Fiancé Dee Devlin