Conor McGregor has fuelled speculation that he could be set for another short-lived retirement by posting footage of himself online hitting the punch bag.The Irish southpaw announced his fighting days were over last month, his third retirement in four years, but it seems that once again he is not ready to step away from combat sports for good just yet.The video clip, which sees McGregor wearing boxing gloves, suggests that the 31-year-old is willing to test himself in the squared circle once more rather than inside the Octagon.McGregor is a former two-weight UFC champion, winning the featherweight and lightweight titles in consecutive years in 2015 and 2016.His rapid rise through the rankings saw him become MMA's biggest star in recent years, but he has made no secret of his other interests outside of the sport.McGregor made his professional boxing debut in August 2017, challenging undefeated superstar Floyd Mayweather. Despite being stopped in the 10th round, McGregor was far from disheartened and has repeatedly stated that he would like to try his hand at boxing again.A rematch with Mayweather has been mooted, whilst Manny Pacquiao and Paulie Malignaggi have also been put forward as possible McGregor opponents.
Bad blood remains between McGregor and Malignaggi following their infamous sparring sessions in the build-up to the Mayweather bout, with the two fighters continuing to dispute how those spars played out.
Many wondered whether to take McGregor's latest retirement speech seriously. Was it simply a ploy to look for bigger paydays? Is he biding his time until fans are allowed back into arenas?
For the moment, those questions remain unanswered. Yet, given his history, do not be surprised to see McGregor take centre stage again in the near future.
GIVEMESPORT'S Sam Brookes says...
Many fans would welcome the return of McGregor, whose fights are always entertaining and often finish with a dramatic knockout. It just seems he would be better off remaining with the UFC instead of stepping into a boxing ring for the second time.
McGregor did not disgrace himself in his defeat to Mayweather, but there remain doubts as to how seriously the American took the contest. After having some success in the early stages, McGregor was ultimately outclassed and stopped on his feet.
A far more appealing spectacle is a potential rematch with Khabib Nurmagomedov. The Russian wrestler won their first fight via fourth round submission, but McGregor did pose some problems, leaving fans wondering whether he could do even better a second time around.