CONOR MCGREGOR’S HISTORIC title shot against Rafael dos Anjos has this evening been confirmed as the main event of UFC 197 on 5 March in Las Vegas.

Less than three months after his stunning 13-second demolition of Jose Aldo, McGregor will return the octagon as he makes the step up to the lightweight division.

The featherweight world champion will look to become just the third fighter to win UFC titles in two weight classes when he faces dos Anjos at the MGM Grand.

It will be the second of two mouth-watering fights at the event with Holly Holm’s first bantamweight title defence against Miesha Tate part of a blockbuster card.

In a post on his Facebook page, McGregor wrote:

“This McGregor Inc. executive business decision is brought to you by the King himself in association with EA Sports. ‘McGregor is the Game.’”Mr. McGregor would like to thank the fans and the media for their patience in this decision.”Mr. McGregor was still busy counting the take from his last fight.

“He has chosen to dedicate this demolition job to the loyal people of Brazil and all the fans around the globe who stay true to their roots and loyal to their land.

“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!”

“Viva la Brasil!

“See you all in Las Vegas, March 5th!!! The King returns!”

Tickets for UFC 197 will go on sale next Friday, 22 January.

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One of the most eagerly-anticipated UFC title fights in years takes place this weekend