<P> Mayweather was widely expected to dominate the fight early, but McGregor started strong and was ahead on the score cards for the first few rounds, due in part to Mayweather using the rope - a-dope technique liberally in the early stages . As the fight progressed, McGregor weakened . In rounds 9 and 10, Mayweather landed a series of punches to McGregor's face, and referee Robert Byrd eventually called the fight in favor of Mayweather after McGregor failed to defend himself . </P> <P> After the match Mayweather stated that he had expected McGregor to be a fast starter, and had allowed him to deliver his heavy blows early . McGregor on the other hand was disappointed by what he saw as an early stoppage, but respected the referee's decision . Former boxers such as George Foreman and Evander Holyfield expressed their impression regarding McGregor's boxing skills and the competitiveness of the fight, with Foreman claiming that experts who criticized the fight "should apologize . It was competitive". Mike Tyson gave McGregor an "A grade" for his performance, stating he was impressed . The fight was lauded for its entertaining and exciting nature, especially when compared to Mayweather's most recent bouts . </P> <P> Mayweather announced in his post-fight interview that he had fought his final boxing match, and would retire from the sport . McGregor said in his post-fight interview that he would be willing to box again, and that he would return to mixed martial arts and the UFC . </P> <P> Davis failed to make weight during the August 25 weigh in, forcing the IBF to strip him of the title . The title was declared vacant, but would be still up for grabs if Fonseca secures victory . Davis would go on to win by KO in the eighth round . Cleverly lost his WBA light heavyweight title to Jack in a one - sided bout which ended when the referee stopped the fight in the fifth . Cleverly retired after the fight . </P>

Conor mcgregor vs floyd mayweather is it boxing or ufc