Donald Cerrone reacts to Conor McGregor's UFC 246 performance: 'I've never seen anything like that'

Donald Cerrone paid tribute to Conor McGregor’s stunning performance at UFC 246, admitting he had never seen anything like the Irishman’s explosive start in all his years in MMA.

McGregor launched himself at ‘Cowboy’ straight after the opening bell, instantly bloodying his opponent’s nose with a series of unorthodox shoulder strikes.

The Dubliner then rocked Cerrone with a head kick which he followed up with a flying knee. With his opponent dazed, he waded in with a flurry of punches that brought the end of the contest after just 40 seconds.

While McGregor was considered the favourite for Saturday’s clash, some predicted the experienced Cerrone to spoil the comeback party.

But the American admitted post-fight he had no answer to McGregor’s frantic start.

"He got me with his elbows right away and distorted me. Then he head-kicked me.

"I've never seen anything like that. He caught me way off guard. He busted my nose, it started bleeding, then he stepped back and head-kicked me."

Cerrone added: "Ah man, I love this sport. I'm going to keep fighting. I don't care, this is what I love man."