Conor McGregor is 31 years of age, but he's managed to keep himself in superb condition, thanks to his determination and intense training.

The former UFC Lightweight Champion is set for a return to the ring this Saturday at UFC 246, where he'll face Donald Cerrone. McGregor is also interested in a rematch against Khabib Nurmagomedov, who defeated him at UFC 229.

So what's the key for McGregor to retain his elite physical condition, as he nears his 32nd birthday? As it turns out, McGregor drew inspiration from another world-class and elite athlete.

In an interview with ESPN (h/t Nolan King of MMA Junkie), McGregor explained that he was inspired by Los Angeles Lakers All-Star LeBron James, who hasn't displayed any signs of regression at the age of 35.

"I actually said this to Tony Robbins, right? Because I read something about LeBron James a while back, about maybe a year ago. He spent $1.5 million annually on his health, his self, his everything, his nutritionist – and I spent nothing.

Only in camp (do) I bring a team together. That’s not the way to do this, but I drop money on a bleeding car or a watch. I’m like, ‘Spend on myself, my health, and my fitness.’ That’s helped me. Then you acquire more. You’re going to acquire even more then."

James later told reporters (via HoopJab) that it's "humbling" to know that he's inspiring "other great athletes." The three-time NBA Champion also emphasized his desire to play at a high level for as long as possible.

Related: Kawhi Leonard Closed Out Contract With Clippers In Drake's Hidden Hills Home

James' investments have more than paid off at this stage. A groin injury sidelined him for a long period of the 2018-19 season, in what turned out to be a lost year for the Lakers. But the groin problem wasn't exactly a sign that James was on the verge of declining.

Through the Lakers' first 39 games, LeBron has averaged 25.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 10.9 assists per game. If he sustains this production, 2019-20 will mark the first time in his career where James averaged double-digit assists per game.

These numbers are very close to the career averages LeBron has post. His Lakers are comfortably atop the Western Conference with a 33-8 record, and they look poised to earn home advantage, at least through the West. And it's thanks in large part to James' elite production, which may not have been possible if he didn't spend over a million to receive high level training.

Next: Viral Post Claims Wombats Have Been Sharing Their Burrows During Australian Wildfires