Conor McGregor makes definitive prediction about Khalil Rountree Jr.'s future after UFC 307 loss to Alex Pereira

Conor McGregor recently expressed his thoughts on Khalil Rountree Jr.'s future following UFC 307. McGregor voiced his firm belief that Rountree Jr. will bounce back and is still a title contender in the light heavyweight division.

Rountree Jr. challenged Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 307 on Saturday (Oct. 5) at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. This marked Pereira's third title defense, previously defending against Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill at UFC 303 and UFC 300, respectively. Meanwhile, Rountree Jr. was coming off a third-round TKO win over Anthony Smith at UFC Vegas 83 last year.

Many were surprised by the promotion's decision to pit No. 8-ranked Rountree Jr. against Pereira, but the American outperformed expectations, putting on a remarkable performance against the reigning champion. One of them was McGregor, who praised Rountree Jr. in a now deleted X post, claiming that 'The War Horse' is still in contention for the title.

''Truly! This man is the real deal! He will remain in this UFC LHW title picture. You may have not seen the last of Khalil Rountree Jr.''

Screenshot of Conor McGregor's now deleted post on X

Rountree Jr. dropped Pereira to his knees with a strong right after the latter missed a head kick in the second round. However, the challenger had no response for 'Poatan's jab, which damaged and bruised his face throughout the fight.

Pereira was able to knock out Rountree Jr. in Round 4 with body blows, prompting the referee to end the fight. As a precautionary step for a potential head injury and a certain facial injury, the American was reportedly hospitalized after the fight for a CT scan.

As for McGregor, he is expected to return next year, according to UFC CEO Dana White.