Conor McGregor is planning a return to headline the UFC White House event, with potential opponents including the winner of Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett or Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira for the “BMF” title.
If you’ve been out of the loop, UFC White House is making waves in the MMA world. Fighters from all corners are eager to join what promises to be a historic event. And yes, even the biggest names are in the mix.
Conor McGregor, who hasn’t fought professionally since his 2021 leg injury against Dustin Poirier, is planning a comeback. Rumor has it, he’s eyeing the UFC White House as his stage for return.
Initially, McGregor was expected to fight Michael Chandler. They were set for UFC 303, but McGregor’s injury changed those plans. Recently, Dana White dismissed the matchup as outdated. McGregor, unfazed, has thrown down the gauntlet to anyone willing to step up. So, who should he fight?
The UFC’s strategy in 2026 is clear: big, marketable fights. Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett are battling for the interim lightweight title, not Arman Tsarukyan. It’s all about spectacle. While Chandler makes sense, bigger fights are on the horizon.
Let’s explore some options.
First, the Gaethje vs. Pimblett winner. They’re clashing at UFC 324 for the interim title. The winner is supposed to face Ilia Topuria for unification, but Topuria’s future is uncertain. A McGregor fight here would be electrifying.
If Gaethje wins, a showdown with McGregor could be legendary. Pimblett winning sets up a clash of generations. Either way, it’s a blockbuster.
Now, consider the Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira winner. They’re fighting for the “BMF” title at UFC 326. McGregor has shown interest in this belt, and unlike other titles, it’s more about prestige than rankings.
The challenge? McGregor might struggle against either fighter. But the spectacle would be undeniable. Even if he loses, it boosts the “BMF” title’s allure.
Lastly, the ever-tempting McGregor vs. Diaz trilogy. Their rivalry is iconic, but with Diaz out of the UFC, it’s a long shot. Could the UFC lure him back? Maybe. But at what cost?
In the end, McGregor’s return will be monumental, regardless of the opponent. The odds favor him challenging for the “BMF” belt, keeping the lightweight division clear. A win or loss, it’s a win-win for the UFC.