Conor McGregor was impressed with Alex Pereira’s assessment of his latest injury.

McGregor was set to return in a UFC comeback fight against Michael Chandler at the end of last month, but suffered a new setback after breaking his toe in training.

Pereira defended McGregor after his recent injuryCredit: Getty

The Irishman faced surprise comparisons to UFC light-heavyweight Pereira who fought through a similar injury and defeated Jiri Prochazka in the replacement main event.

But ‘Poatan’ explained why the situations were different, telling reporters: “They are different situations. He [McGregor] doesn’t need to fight with a broken finger, because that limits you a lot.

“The conditions are different. He already made his life, worked to conquer what he conquered.

“I’m only half way there, conquering my stuff. For me it was better to fight, even with a broken finger.

“I think he did the best, maybe instead I would have done the same. ”

McGregor issued an extremely grateful response on Twitter, replying: “Real recognise real. Excited to secure my new date.”

The Brazilian is having huge success in the UFC, and has followed in the footsteps of McGregor by becoming a two-weight champion.

McGregor’s acknowledgement of Pereira’s message is yet another sign that the current pound-for-pound star is becoming a popular figure on the roster.

McGregor totally concurred with Pereira’s view

McGregor was forced to withdraw after his injury

It has been a frustrating period for the UFC superstar, who hasn’t fought since breaking his leg in a trilogy defeat to Dustin Poirier in 2021.

He had already received multiple delays to his planned comeback, but looked finally set to return in June.

But his latest injury landed another blow, having showed off some pictures of the damage on social media.

Many have questioned McGregor’s desire to return to the cage given his huge success and monumental revenue he has generated in his combat sports career.

But it is clear the 35-year-old is keen to reschedule his date with destiny against Chandler, as he looks to restore his name in the win column.

And he has admitted that the injury is having more of an effect than many think in a statement on social media.

He said: “I’d be lying if I told you I wasn’t in deep pain right now watching fight week take place. Deep mental pain.

“Thank you for the messages of support and encouragement, my peers and fans.”