Eddie Hearn has described Conor McGregor as "a great promoter" after meeting the UFC star earlier this week - and believes the Dubliner will be a part of Katie Taylor's homecoming event later this year.
The Matchroom Boxing boss and promoter for Katie Taylor jetted into Dublin on Monday to meet with McGregor at the Black Forge Inn pub in Crumlin to discuss the Bray Bomber's homecoming fight on May 20.
But Hearn has reiterated that the spring bout "probably" won't take place at Croke Park, although Taylor could fight at GAA Headquarters later in the year.
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He told Betfred’s Lightweight Boxing Show: "Probably not in May. There’s a rugby game on there on that day and that’s our TV day. We know it’s £1 million more to host a fight there than Wembley, which is wild but it is what it is.
"Everybody says 'Just pay it, just pay it, it’s great business', well that isn’t great business because imagine making a fight like that and losing a £1 million. Fantastic, what great business.
"Conor McGregor talked about supporting the event and he’s just full of beans. I had a nice pint of Black Forged Irish Stout, which is better than Guinness, and it was just mad being around Conor. Imagine watching a Conor McGregor press conference and that’s basically what it was like at dinner. He’s a character, he’s a great promoter and he genuinely loves Katie Taylor and wants to help. I’m sure he’ll be part of the show."
The May 20 bout now almost looks certain to take place at the 3Arena, with Hearn adding: "The 3Arena is only 9,000 or 10,000 but it’s the biggest (indoor) arena in Ireland. We keep talking about these outdoor events for Katie but if I miss this slot then we may never get the chance to go.
"By the way it’s an unbelievable arena and Conor has fought there. The atmosphere would be wild. We won’t be very popular though as the tickets will go on day one. I just want it to happen."
Hearn also stated that the Croke Park event could see Taylor face undisputed light-welterweight champion and Northampton native Chantelle Cameron if the Bray native beats Serrano in May.
He explained: "Katie said to me she wants Amanda Serrano and Chantelle Cameron. The Chantelle Cameron fight could be the fight for Croke Park, but let’s get this up and running, get tickets on sale and give Katie Taylor a homecoming in Ireland."
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