Matchroom Sport promoter Eddie Hearn has spoken about a “memorable” meeting with former UFC champion Conor McGregor in February to discuss McGregor’s possible involvement in Irish boxing star Katie Taylor’s homecoming fight. The pair had already briefly met at a Taylor event, but the meeting this year was Hearn’s first “full dose of the McGregor experience”.

Over lunch, Hearn said McGregor’s enthusiasm and energy for boxing and mixed martial arts was evident. Having volunteered his assistance after hearing of a setback affecting Taylor’s much-anticipated rematch with Amanda Serrano, McGregor is said to be passionate about helping Taylor. He donated his whiskey brand to the cause and Hearn said it “looks like” McGregor’s brands and promotions agency will back Taylor in future.