Conor McGregor blasts 'stupid' coronavirus after family tragedy
Conor McGregor has vented his fury at “stupid” coronavirus after initially suggesting his aunt died from the respiratory illness.
Irish UFC superstar McGregor took to social media to pay tribute to his relative and expressed his concerns about the continued spread of COVID-19 across the world.
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Europe has been declared the epicentre of the pandemic with close to 100 confirmed cases in Ireland, including one death – an elderly woman with underlying health conditions.
McGregor did not make clear if his aunt died directly from the disease, but the 31-year-old – due to appear on US television when told the news – has called for everyone to pull together.
“Sitting in the chair about to beam live to all the US morning talk shows, I get a phone call telling me that my lovely little auntie Anne had passed away,” he posted on Instagram.
“I couldn't go live anymore. My poor little friendly loving auntie. My mother's sister. This stupid f****** virus. What the f*** is happening.
“I took my family to bull island. Looked out at the sea. Took a deep breath. Thank f***! Lord thank you.
“Stay tight people! We are all we got love. Rest in Peace Anne Moore I love you.”
McGregor later took to Instagram again to clarify that his aunt did not die from coronavirus.
“I am grateful for the kind wishes and sympathy for my Auntie’s passing,” he wrote.
“I want to clear up that it has been confirmed she was not a victim of coronavirus.
“As we prepare for her funeral I know that many of us will confront the virus in the weeks ahead.
“As I gather with my family I ask you all to make an extra effort to be there for friends and family during the stressful days ahead.
“And from my family, thank you for your support at this sad time.”
McGregor ‘more susceptible’ to coronavirus
McGregor, who made his return to the UFC with a stoppage win over Donald Cerrone in January, claimed he is more susceptible to becoming ill due to his training regime.
“I'd train my ass off, to the point of low immunity. It's inevitable with the intensity of the training,” he added in the initial social media post.
“The immune system will be tested. I would float around in this manner, and always end up catching little colds and flus. I feel bulletproof right now though!
“Stay vigilant on our personal hygiene people. And our personal space.”
With Yahoo Sports Staff