Conor McGregor has outlined the only way to stop Zion Clark after the legless MMA fighter won his professional debut.
Clark is a 25-year-old former college wrestler who was born with no legs due to a birth disorder called caudal regression syndrome. Refusing to allow his disability to restrict him, Clark won his professional MMA debut this past weekend against able-bodied opponent Eugene Murray at Gladiator Challenge in San Diego.
Former two-weight UFC champion McGregor shared his fascination for Clark's story and praised him for the takedown ability he showed off in his debut. "Absolutely fascinating to hear about this man’s debut and now see it. Lighting entry on the low single. Wow! You should not connect to him in any shape or form. Frames only. Frame to strike. Fascinating! Congrats and so much respect to that man Zion Clark! Mma is the best sport," he wrote.
The unified rules of MMA prohibit fighters from landing kicks on their opponent when any part of their body except the soles of their feet are touching the ground. This means that Clark is considered a grounded opponent at all times, apart from when he uses his hands to leap off the floor. McGregor thinks the only way to Clark could be stopped is if his opponent landed a heavy punch whilst on the ground.
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"Can’t kick as he is grounded opponent. The only way to stop him is to develop KO ending shots mid transitions in grappling," he added. "Very few on the planet possess this skill. And to 3/4 way downward punch a jab there is just no power. Look at opponents attempt before the shot. Wild!"
Clark caught wind of McGregor's [raise and thanked him for the support, replying: "Appreciate the love and respect. This is just the start for me I’m excited to see how far I can take my fight game! I proved the doubters wrong in wrestling becoming an All American and D1 Wrestler. All respect."
The 25-year-old holds several Guinness World Records such as the highest box jump from the hands, the most diamond push-ups in three minutes and the quickest 20-metre run on two hands. Clark has expressed his willingness of competing in the UFC and vowed to throw internet star Hasbulla "like a football" if they fought.
“No way Hasbulla got a UFC contract, I literally fight guys twice my size and still win," Clark tweeted. "If true I’m throwing little man when I see him like a football. I swear then give me the contract Dana unless you have a problem with the disabled levelling up like me!"
