In a surprising turn of events, UFC superstar Conor McGregor will not be returning to the Octagon in 2024. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed McGregor's absence during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series, putting to rest months of speculation about the fighter’s anticipated comeback.
Initially, McGregor was set to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 slated for late June. The bout was highly anticipated by fans, especially after McGregor and Chandler took on the roles of opposing coaches on the 31st season of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. However, an unfortunate injury during a training session led to McGregor suffering a broken pinky toe, forcing him to pull out of the fight.
The potential clash between McGregor and Chandler had already experienced multiple delays and uncertainties. Despite various efforts, including speculation of a rescheduled fight in December, Dana White clarified that McGregor won't be stepping into the ring this year. White stated, "We talked. We talked. We didn't meet up but we talked, and yeah, he wants to fight. So we'll figure it out. [But] not this year. He won't fight this year."
For McGregor, this delay is another chapter in a tumultuous period in his career. Since November 2016, McGregor has struggled to regain his former dominance in the UFC, with a record standing at 1-3. His only victory since then came against Donald Cerrone, a far cry from the fighter who once held titles in two weight classes.
Beyond his performance in the Octagon, McGregor has faced various legal troubles and has teased retirement on multiple occasions, adding layers of uncertainty around his fighting future. His highly personal and public battles have often overshadowed his athletic pursuits, leaving fans and analysts alike debating his place in the sport.
Meanwhile, Michael Chandler has been dealing with his own set of challenges. His recent UFC track record mirrors that of McGregor, standing at 1-3 over his last four fights. Chandler's last outing in November 2022 ended in a submission loss to Dustin Poirier. The Tennessee native has been vocal about wanting to fight McGregor, viewing it as a significant opportunity to elevate his own standing in the sport.
The buildup to what would have been one of 2024's most anticipated fights has been rife with delays and uncertainties. Fans were eager to see the dynamic clash of styles and personalities between McGregor and Chandler. Both fighters have displayed a penchant for the dramatic, and a showdown between the two promised high entertainment value.
As the UFC navigates through these challenges, attention now shifts to who McGregor might face upon his eventual return. For now, the UFC and its fans will have to wait longer to see the Irishman back in action.