Conor McGregor Saves The Day, Makes Sure Local Gym In Ireland Stays Open

Like most businesses and gyms, Straight Blast Gym (SBG) Portarlington is feeling the ill-effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Owner Philip Mulpeter was forced to close the gym down, struggling to keep it open with bills piling up.

When Conor McGregor heard about the heartbreaking news, the SBG Dublin-chapter member wasted no time offering Mulpeter financial help.

The former two-division UFC champion believes in Mulpeter's advocacy of developing aspiring fighters ranging from young kids and up.

The SBG Portarlington's official Instagram account publicly confirmed the aid given by McGregor, stating that they were no longer closing thanks to his backing.

“Our team-mate and friend [Conor McGregor] has decided to help us out and keep the gym running. We will be eternally grateful” the post read. “To everyone that messaged and got in touch with us to show your support, thank you all so much. See you all on the mats.”

McGregor’s assist comes not long after he gave boxer Claressa Shields some tips as she shifts to the mixed martial arts scene. The Irishman is one of many onlookers eager to see her fight inside the cage.

From his end, McGregor is busy preparing for his return at UFC 257 set to happen in January 2021. He is set to face Dustin Poirier once more, seen as a potential warm-up fight.

Many believe that he will face Manny Pacquiao in a boxing match sometime next year although no date has been officially announced.

Speaking of Pacquiao, the eight-time division champion revealed that he plans to fight at least twice in 2021. In a report from the Daily Tribune, the boxer-politician may stage his first fight in April and then again in September.

Of the two planned dates, September could be the one where he would face McGregor.