Once heralded as the epitome of martial arts versatility, Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has recently come under critical observation from fellow fighters regarding his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) skills. Notably, Chase Hooper, an elite UFC lightweight grappler currently enjoying a four-fight winning streak, has openly critiqued McGregor’s grappling technique, labeling it as “white-belt level.”
This comment came after McGregor shared footage on social media platforms showcasing his training sessions, where he drilled the “knee on belly” position—a fundamental move in BJJ. Despite being a black belt under his longtime coach John Kavanagh since 2023, McGregor’s execution in the video did not impress Hooper, who remarked, “Objectively, that’s a white-belt level knee on belly.”
The Rise and Stumbles of ‘The Notorious’
Conor McGregor’s journey through the ranks of UFC has been nothing short of spectacular, with him securing world titles in both the featherweight and lightweight divisions. His striking prowess and ability to finish fights have made him a fan favorite and a formidable opponent inside the octagon. However, his recent performances and the quality of his training have sparked debates about his current form and dedication to the sport.
Following a significant setback in 2021 at UFC 264, where McGregor suffered a broken leg during his bout against Dustin Poirier, his career trajectory has seen noticeable turbulence. The incident marked a turning point, with McGregor pulling out of a scheduled fight against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in 2024, marking his first withdrawal from a fight in his UFC career.
McGregor’s Personal and Professional Challenges
Apart from his performance woes, McGregor has also been grappling with legal issues that have brought unwanted attention to his personal life. These developments have somewhat dimmed the aura that once surrounded the Irish superstar. Belal Muhammad, the welterweight champion, shared his insights on McGregor’s current state, suggesting that McGregor is desperately trying to maintain relevance in the fight world. During an appearance on Jake Shields’ podcast, Muhammad expressed, “He always wants to put his name in the mix whenever there’s a big fight… He’s losing it… He wants that so bad. As they say, money doesn’t buy happiness, right? I don’t think he’s happy.”
What’s Next for McGregor?
Despite the critiques and personal battles, the buzz around McGregor’s future in UFC continues. With his latest training footage and ongoing engagement with the sport, it is clear McGregor hasn’t thrown in the towel just yet. His potential return to the octagon remains a topic of keen interest and speculation among fans and critics alike.
I am a writer with a passion for technology and gaming. I write about a variety of subjects, including Esports, Games, Shows, and Sports. I create engaging and informative content for Hiptoro.