McGregor's Frustration with UFC
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has expressed significant frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), citing delays and perceived unfair treatment in the lead-up to his return to the octagon. McGregor, who has been sidelined since July 2021 due to a leg injury sustained in a bout, is eager to resume his fighting career.
The Irishman's comeback was postponed further when he failed to re-enter the drug-testing pool in a timely manner. However, McGregor rectified this by joining the testing pool in October, setting up the possibility for him to compete again on April 8, 2024.
Despite the clear pathway to return, McGregor's coach has hinted at a potential summer comeback, suggesting that plans are in place for the fighter to step back into the limelight during the warmer months.
Unequal Treatment Claims
McGregor has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with how the UFC has handled his situation. "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 lamented, referencing his significant contributions to the popularity and financial success of the UFC.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," he added, emphasizing the impact of his absence from the sport on his career and livelihood. The fighter's impatience is palpable as he continues to wait for a definitive date for his return, urging the organization to provide clarity: "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 situation, stating he has "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," which only adds to the uncertainty surrounding the fighter's future.
Chandler Eyes Diaz, McGregor Challenges Pacquiao
Meanwhile, Michael Chandler, another top lightweight contender, appears to have shifted his focus away from a potential matchup with McGregor, instead looking to secure a fight with Nate Diaz. This leaves McGregor exploring other avenues to compete, including outside of mixed martial arts.
Conor McGregor has publicly challenged boxing legend Manny Pacquiao to a boxing match in Saudi Arabia. This callout comes amidst claims from McGregor that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars over a legal dispute. McGregor's brash confidence shone through as he taunted the Filipino boxer: "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," and questioned Pacquiao's willingness to meet at a higher weight class, "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 further challenged the norms of boxing by suggesting that if Pacquiao wants him to drop down in weight, then it would only be fair for him to be allowed to utilize a broader set of combat techniques, including kicks and grappling—elements not permitted in traditional boxing rules.
McGregor's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, Conor McGregor has stepped into the UFC octagon only four times. His record during this period includes a single victory against Donald Cerrone and losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, with the latter defeating him twice. These bouts have been some of the most high-profile events in the sport, underlining McGregor's status as a major draw despite his recent inactivity.
As the MMA community eagerly awaits more details on McGregor's next move, both inside the UFC and potentially in the boxing ring, his public statements underscore a fighter ready to reclaim his position at the pinnacle of combat sports, provided he can navigate the complexities of his current standing with the UFC and resolve any outstanding legal disputes.