The boy from Crumlin is out to shock the world

Before Conor McGregor had even heard of mixed martial arts, he wanted to be a boxer.

He first stepped into Crumlin Boxing Club nearly 20 years ago in muddy football boots and started punching a heavy bag.

McGregor returned constantly for the next seven years, determined to become tough enough to dissuade bullies in his Dublin neighbourhood. He competed in amateur bouts against opponents of all sizes and shapes over the years, developing tenacity and power.