McGregor's UFC Return: A Summer Comeback on the Horizon?
Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has voiced his frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) over his prolonged absence from the octagon. The Irish superstar has not competed since July 2021, sidelined by a leg injury that required extensive recovery time. However, his return to fighting was further delayed due to a delay in re-entering the drug-testing pool.
After officially entering the drug-testing pool in October, McGregor is now eligible to compete again starting April 8, 2024. Despite this clearance, his coach has hinted at a potential return during the summer, stirring anticipation among fans for the fighter's comeback.
The outspoken McGregor has expressed feelings of being treated unfairly by the UFC, suggesting that no other fighter has faced such treatment despite the significant revenue he has generated for the organization. "Give me something. It was supposed to be April, (and before) it was supposed to be December. They never treated anyone – no one has ever been treated [like this] for all the figures I've brought in this game," McGregor stated, reflecting his discontent with the situation.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, emphasizing the impact of his absence on his career and livelihood. His impatience is palpable as he awaits a firm date for his return, "I just want the date. Give me the date, please. That's it. … I'm waiting, I'm waiting and I'm waiting. My patience is wearing thin."
No Updates from Dana White
UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped regarding McGregor's return, leaving the timeline uncertain. When asked about McGregor or any potential matchups, White simply said he's "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," offering no further updates.
A Shift in Focus: McGregor Eyes Boxing Match with Pacquiao
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding his UFC comeback, McGregor has shifted focus to another combat sports legend, challenging Manny Pacquiao to a boxing match in Saudi Arabia. This comes amidst a claim from McGregor that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars over a legal dispute. McGregor's challenge to Pacquiao includes a taunt directed at the boxing icon, urging him to "grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class." He provocatively suggests that if Pacquiao expects him to come down in weight, fairness would dictate that more of McGregor's mixed martial arts skills should be allowed in the ring. "How does that sound? Now, wouldn't you think Manny should have to come up to my weight? Considering it's his sport. Would you think that's what a man would do versus what a mouse would do?" McGregor questioned.
Continuing his argument for a fairer fight, McGregor proposed, "Why not? It's his sport. If he wants me to come down to a smaller weight, I should be able to use more of my weapons. I should be able to kick. I should be able to grapple. Shouldn't that be fair?"
Looking Back at McGregor's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor has stepped into the UFC octagon only four times. His record during this period includes a swift victory over Donald Cerrone and defeats at the hands of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter besting him twice. These results have left fans and critics alike questioning what remains for the future of McGregor's fighting career.
Chandler Seeks Diaz, Not McGregor
As the MMA community speculates about McGregor's next move, fellow lightweight contender Michael Chandler has redirected his attention towards Nate Diaz, signaling a shift away from a potential bout with McGregor. Chandler's interest in Diaz adds another layer to the evolving narrative of the lightweight division's future matchups.
In conclusion, Conor McGregor's path back to the UFC remains mired in uncertainty and controversy. While his eligibility to compete is set, the exact timing and opponent for his return are still undetermined. Meanwhile, his flirtation with a high-profile boxing match against Manny Pacquiao continues to stir the pot. As McGregor's patience wears thin, the combat sports world watches eagerly, awaiting the next chapter in the storied career of one of its most polarizing figures.