Conor McGregor (photo via UFC)

The next chapter in the story of MMA former champion Conor McGregor looks like it could be set. While a date and venue are yet to be determined, hopefully the highly awaited fight between McGregor and Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone becomes a reality. Of course, MMA fans are being asked to read between the lines as neither party has come right out to confirm a fight is on the horizon.

Based on McGregor’s fine record of 21-4 and his high profile within the sport, Bovada has set the early line for the potential fight with McGregor slightly favored at -185 and Cerrone coming back as the underdog at +150. You can learn more here about bonus codes and more information about the odds before betting. MMA fans will likely await an official announce at which time the line is expected to fluctuate wildly and frequently.

Cerrone (34-11, 1 NC) is coming off a devastating submission victory over Mike Perry at UFC Denver. During his post-fight news conference, Cerrone alluded to the press that this latest victory would not be the highlight of his 2018 season. In fact, he was preparing to announce a major fight for some time next year. It is widely anticipated that McGregor is in his sights.

Prior to signing a deal and setting a date, McGregor has a little unfinished business with which he needs to deal. He could be subject to disciplinary action from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) related to a post-fight brawl that broke out at UFC 229 between McGregor’s camp and Khabib Nurmagomedov and his goon squad. A determination is expected to be announced on Dec. 10.

The line is similar to the lines set when McGregor fought Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205 and Jose Aldo at UFC 194. Bettors will note that its not often McGregor is listed at such a short price. It’s also noteworthy that Cerrone hasn’t been listed as an underdog since his unanimous decision loss to former UFC Welterweight Champion Robbie Lawler at UFC 2014.

As a testament to his toughness and grit, Cerrone became the winningest fighter in UFC history with his victory over Perry. The win gave him 21 victories under the UFC label, tying him with UFC greats  Georges St-Pierre and Michael Bisping. By finishing the fight he also broke Anderson Silva and Vitor Belfort’s record for most UFC finished fights at 16. If Cerrone is indeed slated to fight McGregor, he will need to drop back and fight at 155 pounds in the lightweight division.

After a series of notorious episodes, including the boxing debacle against Floyd Mayweather, McGregor was defeated by Nurmagomedov last month at UFC 229. Unfortunately, bad blood between the two fighters resulted in an unfortunate brawl that involved both camps and several MMA fans. There’s a chance both fighters will get a significant suspension. If the suspension leaves Cerrone idle, he may schedule another opponent to stay sharp in anticipation of McGregor returning to the octagon, breathing fire and ready to atone for prior misdeeds.