Conor McGregor has paid tribute to an old rival in a social media post, five years after they met at UFC Dublin.
The former two-weight champion took on Diego Brandao at the 3 Arena , then called The O2, defeating the TUF 14 winner within the first round in front of one of the loudest crowds in MMA history.
And with the anniversary of the bout happening on Friday, McGregor took to social media to pay tribute to Brandao, saying in a tweet: "You have some phenomenal finishes in your storied career Diego."
"You should still be in the UFC, the lower leagues are no match, [you are] a true finisher! Happy anniversary my brother."
And Brandao responded thanking The Notorious for his kind words, saying: "You are the man.
"You killed everybody in divisions, congratulations. Also thanks for my birthday lol".
The Brazilian also joked that McGregor should call Dana White to help get him back to the UFC, and McGregor retweeted the message.
UFC Dublin was one of the most famous cards ever in the history of Mixed Martial Arts, where Irish fighters went 6-0 and McGregor famously uttered the line 'we're not here to take part, we're here to take over'.
Cathal Pendred, Neil Seery, Norman Parke, Paddy Holohan and Gunnar Nelson all picked up victories before McGregor's 1st round TKO win in the main event.
Earlier this year Conor announced his retirement from the sport, but now looks set to return.
He tweeted in March: "Hey guys quick announcement, I’ve decided to retire from the sport formally known as “Mixed Martial Art” today.
"I wish all my old colleagues well going forward in competition. I now join my former partners on this venture, already in retirement. Proper Pina Coladas on me fellas!”
But just ten days later he appeared to have performed a U-turn.
He said: "I want to move forward, with my fans of all faiths and all backgrounds. All faiths challenge us to be our best selves. It is one world and one for all. Now see you in the Octagon."
And speaking recently, UFC president Dana White said he believes the Dubliner will fight again either this year or early in 2020.
He told TMZ: “I think he’ll be back either this year or early next year. We’ll see how this whole thing plays out in September.”
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