CONOR MCGREGOR TO WEAR NEW UFC GLOVES FOR MICHAEL CHANDLER COMEBACK FIGHT

Conor McGregor is set to wear new UFC gloves for his comeback fight against Michael Chandler. The former two-weight world champion, who hasn't fought in nearly three years, will meet Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29, headlining the promotion's International Fight Week.

McGregor, who broke his leg in his last fight, plans to use the titanium rod fitted in his shin to deliver a knockout head kick to Chandler upon his return.

The UFC is introducing a new glove in early June, aimed at reducing hand injuries and accidental eye pokes.

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Known as the 3Eight/5Eight, the glove was tested for 10 weeks by fighters during a recent season of Dana White's Contender Series and will be implemented from UFC 302 on June 1.

UFC boss Dana White said: "We have been working on these gloves over the past few years with the best designers, engineers, and athletes in the world. This redesign will truly be a game-changer for the entire sport of MMA. These gloves will feel lighter, fit fighters' hands better, prevent injuries, and provide maximum flexibility during the fights."

The combatants in three-round bouts will be wearing the gunmetal-colored 3Eight glove, while gold 5Eight gloves will distinguish those taking part in championship matches. With no world title up for grabs when McGregor squares off against Chandler, the Irishman will be sporting the 3Eight variant, reports the Mirror.

The UFC has also unveiled turquoise gloves for Contender Series participants and red gloves for events such as Road to UFC Asia.

Glove sizes have been overhauled, eradicating gender-specific options and presenting a range of 10 unisex versions from XXXS to XXXXL. The weight difference between the lightest (3oz) and heaviest (4.9oz) gloves is now 1.9oz.

The boxing gloves were crafted using scientific data and testimonials from coaches and fighters.

"The UFC has evolved in many aspects of its operation but the one thing that's been static for over 10 years is the one critical component of the sport and that's the gloves. It's really been a collaboration of many minds coming together for the health and safety of our athletes," explained Duncan French, senior vice president of the UFC Performance Institute.

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2024-04-24T14:43:58Z dg43tfdfdgfd