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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
Conor McGregor's teammate Cathal Pendred announced his retirement on Wednesday, and McGregor had some kind words for the man in reaction to the decision.
In a post on Facebook, McGregor credited Pendred for doing something their fellow Irishmen didn't think possible at the time. Here's what McGregor had to say:
"Cathal Pendred = LEGEND!
A man who came from zero combat sports background and entered into the game at a time when there was ZERO UFC fighters signed from Ireland. At a time where 99% of people inside the Irish MMA community, and 100% of people outside, deemed it "impossible" for and Irishman to get signed, let alone register a win inside the UFC. Nowadays everyone thinks they can do it.
Cathal rose up with nothing but hard work, iron grit and a never say die attitude to win the Cage Warriors 170lbs title. Runner up in the Ultimate Fighter and boast a solid 4-2 record inside the UFC's Octagon.
3 of those wins coming against opponents who failed post fight drug tests due to use of Performance Enhancing Drugs after the fight!
This man deserves endless respect!!!
You think Irish Warrior, you think Cathal! You think against all odds underdog, you think Cathal! You think come from behind victory, you think Cathal!!
Cathal brother, you are a legend!
Thank you for all the rounds and all the help over the years and I wish you nothing but the best my brother!! You are a champion at whatever you decide to do in life!"
Penick's Analysis: Pendred failed to live up to the hype built about him from his time in Cage Warriors, but he still put together a winning run in the UFC, controversial decisions or not. It's interesting to see this side of McGregor from time to time, because for as much as he's capable of trash talking any and everyone, he's fiercely loyal to his team. That's a good trait he doesn't necessarily showcase as much.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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