Conor McGregor has outlined his reasons for fighting Dustin Poirier next as he eyes a boxing bout with Manny Pacquiao.
The Notorious is set to face the American, who he defeated in his fourth UFC bout back in 2014, in the coming months before taking on Pacquiao in a boxing match.
When asked why he thought McGregor wanted to fight him, Poirier said: "It's because he's angling to fight Pacquiao... He wants to fight another southpaw before he fights another southpaw.
"I don't know what's going on, but I think that's what the alignment is."
And McGregor confirmed that is exactly why he wants to face Poirier.
The Dubliner commented: "Correct. Southpaw box style. Continue to sharpen my MMA skills with some tough competition, while leading into my Manny bout preparation.
"It’s not easy going between both sports and then coming back to the one sport again. Just want to keep sharp guys, that’s all. It’s only fair."
A bout between McGregor and Pacquiao moved closer over the weekend after the Filipino boxer signed for sports management agency Paradigm Sports, who also manage the MMA star.
Taking to Twitter to make the announcement, Pacquiao said: "Excited to have officially partnered with Paradigm Sports. Grateful for the support of my family, team, and fans as I continue my professional boxing journey. Big things coming! Stay tuned!".
McGregor announced his retirement from the third time in four years in June amid frustration with the UFC over plans for his next fight.
He previously lasted ten rounds in a boxing bout with undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in August 2017.
