At Power Slap 14 in New Orleans on July 18, Dakota McGregor steps back into the spotlight for a second crack at Robert Trujillo—and this time, he’s not holding back.
“I’m beyond excited,” said McGregor. “The last time didn’t go my way. But I’ve learned, I’ve grown, and I’m coming back better in every way.”
A Tough Road to the First Fight
Leading into their first bout, Dakota was quietly battling something few fans knew about—a brutal post-surgery recovery.
“I had a tonsillectomy six weeks before the fight. I couldn’t eat. I was in the hospital every day for a week. The recovery was hell,” McGregor revealed.
Despite the adversity, Dakota showed flashes of power. But now, with a clean bill of health and a full training camp behind him, he’s ready to leave no doubt.
“This time, I can actually train properly. I’ll be heavier, sharper, and ready to make it count.”
Keys to Victory: Precision and Pain
McGregor isn’t shy about what went wrong last time—and how he plans to correct it.
“I was landing too high. If I can bring that damage zone a few inches lower, it’s a whole different story.”
His game plan? Precision over chaos. Accuracy over aggression. And a little bit of that McGregor fire fans have come to expect.
Second Chances Don’t Come Often
When Power Slap matchmaker Erica called and offered the rematch, Dakota didn’t hesitate—even though life outside the cage wasn’t exactly quiet.
“I had a lot going on personally. But when that call comes? You don’t say no. I still can’t believe I’m the guy fighting him again. I’m proud of that.”
Prediction: War Incoming
Asked how he sees the rematch going, McGregor didn’t blink.
“Either it’s going to be a war, or someone’s going to sleep. We’re going into the championship rounds, and someone’s going down.”
On the State of the 155 Division
The lightweight division has been oddly quiet, and McGregor didn’t hold back when asked why.
“Some of the guys are just playing games. I won’t name names, but not everyone wants it bad enough. I feel bad for the promotion—sometimes you can’t spot that until it’s too late.”
Fight Picks: Riding with the Underdogs
As for the rest of the Power Slap 14 main card, McGregor kept it honest:
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Brandon vs. Isaiah III? Too close to call.
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Damon DeBell vs. Wes Mena? “I love me an underdog. I gotta go with Wes.”
Message to Robert Trujillo
Dakota kept it real and raw:
“This time, it’s not going down like the first time. I think you know that too. July 18—let’s go to war.”
With redemption in his sights, Dakota McGregor enters Power Slap 14 with something to prove—and a shot to remind the 155 division that he’s still very much in the hunt.