“More chance of him going to prison or rehab” – Keeler responds to new McGregor fight talk

‘There is more chance of him going to prison or rehab than fighting me, but you never know’.

It’s tongue in cheek from Luke Keeler [17(5)-2(1)-1], but with a taste of truth in the boxer’s opinion considering the rumours with regard to Conor McGregor [0-1(1)] not living the life, his court appearances for driving issues, and the previous charges brought against him for more serious offences in New York.

The Ballyfermot middleweight was talking in reference to reports today that he was on course to fight MMA’s biggest name.

The Irish Star claimed ‘talks were ongoing’ between McGregor and Keeler’s management and stated December 14th – a date cryptically mentioned by ‘The Notorious’ –  was being explored for what could now be deemed a grudge match.

Speaking to Irish-Boxing.com this evening, ‘Cool Hand’, who was last seen in the ring registering a career best win over Luis Arias in Belfast, confirmed that talks have been taking place.

However, the reigning Irish and WBO European champion is anything but hopeful the clash will take place – and even less confident the former Crumlin BC fighters will meet in December.

The Pete Taylor-trained fighter would be open to the clash – no doubt it would be a money spinner, it would boost his profile massively, and he believes it would be an easy knockout victory.

The problem is Keeler feels McGregor won’t be in a position to fight and is therefore focusing on the world title shot said to be just around the corner.

“There is more chance of him going to prison or rehab than fighting me, but you never know,” Keeler told Irish-Boxing.com.

“No, seriously, there have been talks but the team decided to focus on a world title fight as it’s close to being agreed. I honestly don’t think he is in any position to fight anytime soon. I’ll pick up the world title and he can get himself right. When they both happen there will be more chance of it happening. I’m focusing on my own end of things now.”

The most surprising saga in Irish boxing history has roots in McGregor allegedly punching a punter in a Drimnagh pub.

Keeler took umbrage to the behaviour and volunteered to put manners on the Dubliner he alleges also roughed up one of his friends.

The respected and more often than not ultra polite 160lbs fighter then revealed to Irish-Boxing.com that McGregor had agreed to fight him over a heated phone conversation.

The next chapter in the story suggested the two-weight UFC world champion knocked back an offer, which prompted Keeler to proclaim he was now focusing on securing a world title shot.

Today it’s been reported the fight is back on and talks have picked up pace, but speaking to this site this evening Keeler claimed he has no faith in it happening.

Instead Keeler looks set to box before the end of the year – with a world title opportunity on St Patrick’s Day, believed to be versus WBO champion Demetrius Andrade, later on on the agenda.