McGregor’s highly anticipated comeback is edging closerCredit: Getty

McGregor is currently training for his return to the Octagon and keeping fans updated by sharing snippets from sparring sessions on social media.

While there’s nothing quite like trading blows with quality opposition, the UFC superstar does have the option of working on his grappling with a robot.

Urijah Faber was McGregor’s rival before the pair became friends on ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ set in 2015.

‘The California Kid’, who has stayed in touch with McGregor ever since, recently revealed that he has sent the Irishman a ‘cutting-edge’ training dummy to help him prepare for his fight with Chandler.

“We speak occasionally via Instagram. Give each other crap,” Faber told talKSPORT MMA.

“Conor’s a good dude – he’s killing it. I haven’t had a chance to watch his movie yet, but I will.

“I sent him a robot to Ireland for him to train with. It’s cutting-edge technology, a training dummy for jiu-jitsu; it has AI components with choke sensors and joints that dislocate. Got him one out there in Ireland.

“I know he’s training hard and excited to get back in the Octagon. It’s great for our business. He’s a huge star and it’s always great to have him healthy and fighting.”

McGregor coached alongside Faber on the 22nd season of TUFCredit: Getty

Faber has sent him an extravagant gift that may come in handy ahead of UFC 303Credit: @urijahfaber – instagram

McGregor’s lengthy spell on the sidelines began when he broke his leg during a trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021.

A lot of fighters don’t come back from an injury like that, but Faber is confident his friend can return to his best form at UFC 303.

He added: “Injuries are a part of the game, but I’m sure Conor wouldn’t be putting himself back in the Octagon unless he truly thought he was ready to go.

“Chandler is a tough opponent, but the proof is in the pudding, and Conor can do anything he sets his mind to. With the right focus, he’ll be better than ever.

“Chandler’s an awesome athlete, but one thing that scares me for him is Conor’s pinpoint punches. He hits on the button, and I think that’s a big advantage there.”