Conor McGregor is expected to face a striker when he makes his UFC comeback, and BKFC featherweight champion Kai Stewart believes former welterweight champion Leon Edwards would be the perfect match. Stewart, who competes on McGregor’s promotion roster, has grown close to the Irishman and is closely following his anticipated return.
Despite Edwards’ recent three-fight losing streak, Stewart considers him a high-profile fighter who would deliver an exciting bout for McGregor’s first UFC match in five years.
Insight from Kai Stewart on McGregor’s Comeback Plans
Before defending his BKFC featherweight title against Nicolas Gaffie at BKFC 87, Kai Stewart shared his perspective on McGregor’s UFC return, highlighting his access to McGregor’s private social media updates. Their connection gives Stewart insights beyond what most fans see, fueling his enthusiasm for the comeback.
In an interview with Bloody Elbow, Stewart said,
“I have heard some great things about Conor and he and I have shared some conversations since he’s kind of ‘gone dark’.”
He added,
“He hasn’t gone completely dark, but I am full steam ahead on ‘let’s f—ing go Conor McGregor’. I don’t know who he might fight but maybe they put in someone like Leon Edwards because I do think they’ll give him a striker.”
I don’t think they’re going to give him anybody who’s going to wrestle with him… They’re going to want exciting fights and grappling – as a lifelong wrestler – I just can’t even watch that s—.
?Kai Stewart, BKFC Featherweight Champion
McGregor’s Renewed Focus Driven by Family and Spiritual Growth
Stewart also noted that McGregor appears to have found renewed purpose through his family life and spirituality, which could lead to a strong return to competition. The fighter’s recent lifestyle changes seem to have revitalized his motivation and mindset ahead of his UFC comeback.
“So I’m completely team Conor McGregor,”
Stewart said.
“I think for a while there he went Hollywood and lost his way but at the end of the day he’s still the richest fighter on Earth. He’s done what all of us want to do and I do think that he’s figured his life out.”
He observed,
“He got married, he is taking huge time with his kids at least from what I see on social media. I’m on his close friends story on Instagram and there’s just so much family stuff.”
So you can say ‘oh he changed’ or whatever, but I think we’re going to have a focused Conor McGregor and he’s going to get the job done. You can’t have Mystic Mac come back and not get a dub, he’s coming back for a dubski, let’s go!
?Kai Stewart, BKFC Featherweight Champion
The Significance of McGregor’s UFC Comeback
Conor McGregor’s return marks one of the most highly anticipated moments in mixed martial arts, given his status as a legendary UFC champion who revolutionized the sport. With Stewart’s support and insights, McGregor’s comeback fight could deliver a compelling showdown, especially against a striker like Leon Edwards.
The focus on striking over grappling aligns with McGregor’s fighting style and increases the likelihood of an action-packed event that fans eagerly await. McGregor’s renewed personal growth and commitment may well reignite his competitive edge and extend his legacy in the UFC.
