Conor McGregor vows to 'behead' Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 197

As soon as the UFC 197 main event between Conor McGregor and Rafael dos Anjos was officially announced, "The Notorious” immediately initiated the war against the light heavyweight champion.

McGregor, known for his pre-fight antics and mind games, took to Facebook to sledge Dos Anjos ahead of their mammoth showdown. The Irishman took aim at Dos Anjos living and training in California despite being a Brazilian, calling the lightweight champ “American Gringo.”

"Mr. McGregor has said that Rafael is a traitor to his people and vows to 'behead' the 'American Gringo,' Rafael Dos Anjos, in the name of La Brasilia!" McGregor wrote.

UFC 197, which will feature two title fights and three titleholders, has been made official on Mar. 5 in Las Vegas’ MGM Grand Arena, reports the MMA Junkie. McGregor, the undisputed featherweight champion, will try to make history as the first fighter in UFC to hold two title belts simultaneously when he goes against Dos Anjos in the Octagon.

McGregor, one of UFC’s biggest draws, is coming off an impressive win against Jose Aldo at UFC 194 where the Irish champ only needed 13 seconds to drop the Brazilian onto the canvas. Dos Anjos, on the other hand, is taking his momentum from his own swift victory over Donald Cerrone at UFC on FOX 17.

Another title fight in the co-main event will also be anticipated by fight fans, with undisputed women’s bantamweight champ Holly Holm set for her first title defense against Miesha Tate. Holm made a name in the women’s division after knocking Ronda Rousey out cold in their bout at UFC 193 in Melbourne.

According to Sherdog, Dos Anjos opens as a slight favourite to win over McGregor, while Holm comes as the top dog over Tate. However, odds may still change as fight night gets closer.

Nick Kalikas, industry leader of MMA Odds Breaker, believes Dos Anjos’ remarkable win streak against top 155-pounders gives the Brazilian an edge in their upcoming fight. Kalikas also opened the line for Holm at a substantial 4-1 favourite after being the supreme underdog against Rousey last year.

“Tate has won four fights since losing her last UFC title shot and has showcased improved power on the feet, but Holm has proven to have great takedown defense and she should hold a significant edge in technique on the feet,” Kalikas told ESPN.