Conor McGregor‘s fervor for competition remains undeterred.
Since his last bout in 2021, where he endured a debilitating leg injury in a trilogy match against Dustin Poirier, rumors of McGregor’s comeback have circulated for the past year. Initially set to feature as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter against Michael Chandler in 2023, McGregor’s return faced delays due to re-entry into the UFC’s anti-doping program.
Although initial signs hinted at a headline spot at UFC 300 in April, those plans fizzled. McGregor later announced a face-off with Chandler on June 29, coinciding with UFC 303 during this year’s International Fight Week. UFC CEO Dana White dismissed this idea, expressing hope for McGregor’s return in the fall.
While answering fans’ questions via Instagram Stories McGregor stated that he still aims for a June clash against Chandler:
“Still holding hope for June 29. “Lack of action on it, however, is now causing lack of enthusiasm. I need a decision soon. I am the most tested athlete under this new regime. Yet no date to fight.
“The game is a bit lackluster also at present, which isn’t helping. I hope these next few cards pop and I get a date. Eliminate distractions and begin real work towards it.”
McGregor, addressing the persistent delays in booking his next fight, acknowledged the adverse impact on him. The exact reasons behind the delay remain unofficial, with White suggesting McGregor’s amassed wealth could be a factor.
“Conor McGregor doesn’t need the f****** money,” He said in February. “So, when you don’t need the money, it’s not as easy — I mean, Khabib [Nurmagomedov] doesn’t need the money. Khabib retired.”
Despite not directly commenting on White’s rationale, McGregor remains eager for a swift return. Coincidentally, McGregor’s recent Q&A coincided with the eight-year anniversary of his first UFC loss to Nate Diaz. Although discussions about a trilogy with Diaz have lingered, they never materialized due to Diaz’s departure from the UFC. What’s more, it was the stubbornness of the UFC to book the trilogy bout between the two, that made Diaz leave the promotion.
“I wish for this on Mexican Independence Day in The Sphere,” Chandler June, Diaz September. I have let this be known.”
Diaz, who recently hinted at his UFC return in September, has caught McGregor’s attention. Although McGregor is keen on resuming his MMA career, he’s also keeping an eye on boxing opportunities. Previous talks of a matchup against Manny Pacquiao could be revisited, especially considering the lucrative deals Saudi Arabia is offering for high-profile combat sports events. This would be the Irishman’s second tenure in boxing after his 2017 clash against Floyd Mayweather. The fight itself was a huge financial success for all concerned parties and there’s no doubt, that McGregor would like to repeat the achievement.
McGregor’s schedule for 2024 remains uncertain, but his desire for a swift return to action is evident, whether inside the UFC Octagon or a boxing ring.
“It’s still there. Could be December. The Saudis are game changers in the market 100 percent.”
