Crying Michael Jordan is one of the most popular meme templates on the internet. It typically conveys an extremely depressing emotion. Here’s a flashback to when it was applied to former UFC two-division champion Conor McGregor.

The meme’s original source is a screenshot from Michael Jordan’s famous speech during his induction into the NBA Hall of Fame on September 11, 2009, during which he sobbed.

Since then, many sports fans have utilized the cutout of Jordan’s crying face to express sadness after losing their favorite players or teams. Similarly, the meme was used on the Irish UFC star Conor McGregor following his first ever defeat in the promotion in 2016.

In a welterweight match at UFC 196 in 2016, ‘The Notorious’ took on Stockton’s Nate Diaz. Coming into the battle, McGregor was already the undisputed featherweight champion and had never lost in the promotion.

McGregor could only hold his own against Diaz for one round, though. As the latter dominated much of the contest, he used a rare naked choke in the second round to finish the Irishman.

At first, SportsCenter published a photo of the moment the Irishman submitted to Diaz in the bout on Twitter. Later, a user requested that crying MJ be added to McGregor’s face. A well-known MMA media outlet then published the meme.

Here’s how the fans reacted to the meme. Some even made their own version of the meme.

Jordan and McGregor are two of the most renowned names in the sports industry. However, the NBA legend has retired long back. Meanwhile, ‘The Notorious’ is still active in the UFC. But is currently out of fighting because of an injury he suffered in his last bout.

What’s with Conor McGregor in the UFC currently?

‘The Notorious’ hasn’t fared well in the UFC following his return from a boxing match against Floyd Mayweather in 2017. He has won only one bout from his previous four. 

In his most recent bout in 2021, McGregor suffered a gruesome leg injury that has kept him away from the octagon for over a year now. However, the Irishman has recovered and trains frequently.

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The former UFC champion has also hinted at a return soon. He has expressed his desire to fight for the welterweight title in his comeback. However, given his star status, McGregor has plenty of options for his return.

Who do you guys think McGregor should fight in his comeback? What is your reaction to the meme? Let us know in the comments section below.

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