Conor McGregor returned to the octagon in style at UFC 246, as he beat American fans’ favourite, Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone in just 40 seconds in Las Vegas.
Irishman McGregor, 31, came out on top after one of the most spectacular performances of his career.
Two of UFC’s most popular fighters went toe to toe in the main event at the T-Mobile Arena.
But referee Herb Dean stepped in and waved off the contest inside a minute after a series of blows from McGregor.
“I made history tonight. I set a new record. I’m the first fighter in UFC history to secure knockout victories at featherweight, at lightweight and now at welterweight – across three weight divisions, so I’m very proud of that,” said McGregor.
He had not won inside the UFC’s octagon since capturing his second UFC world title in November 2016, and was submitted in four rounds by undefeated UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in October 2018.
McGregor had said earlier in the week that he would look to “acquire rounds” against the 36-year-old American, but he showed no such patience as he came storming out of his corner and threw a huge left hand that immediately signalled his intent to claim a fast finish.