The YouTuber offered to take on the UFC star in a lucrative crossover bout after rumours of a fight between the Irishman and social media star-turned-boxer Logan Paul were quashed and it has been revealed that negotiations are progressing.

Mams Taylor, KSI's manager and Misfits Boxing guru, told talkSPORT.com: "There are talks taking place, and talks are leading to more talks.

"I know he's interested for a fact. I think no fight makes more sense than this fight for Conor.

"He was truly unbelievable in the days where he fought Jose Aldo.

"He's a tough guy, he's a tough challenge for anyone and I think now with the back and forth, it makes sense.

"I think this will break records and be in the top five biggest-selling pay-per-views of all-time.

"I think all sides are motivated by what it can do, they can both sell. There is an underlying respect and disdain there too.

"I think it will be a massive, massive fight and I can't think of a fight that would be bigger for Conor in terms of numbers."

Taylor has promised that KSI will be fighting three times against "serious opponents" this year.

He said: "KSI will fight three times this year.

"Fight 1 will be a great surprise and very interesting. Fight 2 and 3, if people are worried we will take the same route as Jake (Paul)...

"He will not be fighting retired MMA fighters, these will be serious opponents.

"It will be epic and I can't wait to announce it all, but for now focus will be on fight one and his huge comeback."