Conor McGregor has expressed frustration with the delays and uncertainty surrounding his return to the UFC, stating that he has repeatedly prepared for fights that have not materialized, leading to a loss of interest and a break from full training.
Conor McGregor’s UFC comeback seems to be hitting a few snags. It’s been a hot minute since we last saw the Irishman in the octagon. Remember UFC 264? That’s when he broke his leg in a bout against Dustin Poirier.
After a gruelling recovery, there were whispers of a 2023 comeback. Heck, he even coached The Ultimate Fighter, squaring off with Michael Chandler. A December showdown was on the cards, but alas, it never materialized.
January rumors? Nope, didn’t happen. UFC 300? Nope, not happening. The latest buzz is about a June return during International Fight Week. But UFC’s big boss, Dana White, is playing coy about any specifics.
It’s a head-scratcher, ain’t it? The sport’s biggest star is raring to go, but for some reason, he’s stuck in the starting blocks. McGregor himself seems a tad miffed. Chatting with The Mac Life at the premiere of his new flick, Road House, he admitted to losing interest after repeatedly prepping for fights that never come to pass.
“I’m wrapping up this tour, got St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans to attend to, then it’s back to the grind,” said McGregor. He plans to test his physical limits, do the round test, and get back on track the McGregor Fast way.
He’s had training camps in Cannes, Dubai, even had world champions training with him. He was gunning for a December date, then a January date, but the goalposts kept moving. “I lose interest, take a break from full training, maybe have a few drinks. But now, I’m going back, regrouping, getting tested, and getting ready to rock,” he declared.
International Fight Week is slated for June 29 in Vegas. McGregor could still make his previously stated timeline. But Dana White seems to think a fall return is more likely. And when he does return, it looks like Michael Chandler will be the one facing him in the octagon. The former Bellator lightweight champ is sitting tight, waiting for his shot at McGregor.