5 world-class UFC fighters who aren't living up to their potential

#4 Conor McGregor (UFC Record: 10-3)

UFC 257 Poirier v McGregor: Weigh-Ins

It might be ludicrous to claim that a former two-division UFC champion isn't living up to his potential, but we all know that Conor McGregor is a far better fighter than his recent octagon performances have suggested.

Many believe that the money 'The Notorious' has been raking in has dimmed his motivation, while others are of the opinion that the technical shortcomings he has had all along are finally catching up to him. Either way, it's clear that he is a shadow of the man who obliterated Eddie Alvarez and Jose Aldo.

McGregor was clearly far from his best against Khabib Nurmagomedov, before a win over Donald Cerrone appeared to set his UFC career back on track. But after being knocked out for the first time in his professional MMA career by Dustin Poirier, the Irishman faces a make-or-break fight against 'The Diamond' at UFC 264.

McGregor has had his eye on boxing and other business ventures outside the octagon, and that might be the reason behind him not fulfilling his potential in the UFC. It remains to be seen if he can fashion a vintage showing against Poirier next month.

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#3 Zabit Magomedsharipov (UFC Record: 6-0)

UFC 223: Nurmagomedov v Iaquinta

Unfortunately for Zabit Magomedsharipov, a series of misfortunes on the scheduling and injury fronts have left his UFC career in limbo. A man who is undefeated in the promotion with notable wins over Jeremy Stephens and Calvin Kattar, the creative striker hasn't stepped foot in the octagon since November 2019.

Zabit has some health concerns that prevent his cardio from reaching the level it should be it, with several sections of the MMA community of the belief that he is considering walking away from the sport altogether due to a lack of motivation and long spells on the sidelines. The 30-year-old was removed from the UFC rankings because of inactivity and has also found opponents hard to come by.

Barring his sketchy cardio, Zabit is an incredibly well-rounded fighter and it would be a crime if he retires without competing for the title. It remains to be seen what the future holds for the Dagestan native.