Conor McGregor's UFC Return: Delays, Disputes, and a Boxing Challenge
McGregor's UFC Comeback Hurdles
Mixed martial arts superstar Conor McGregor has expressed significant frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) as he navigates the road to his return. Having not stepped into the octagon since July 2021, McGregor's combat sports career has been on hold due to a severe leg injury sustained in his last bout.
Delayed Return and Drug-Testing Pool Entry
The path back to competition has been further complicated by McGregor's delayed entry into the drug-testing pool, an essential step for any fighter looking to compete under the UFC banner. It wasn't until October that McGregor entered the pool, which set the stage for his eligibility to fight again, with a potential comeback date of April 8, 2024.
Despite the clearance to compete, McGregor's coach has hinted at a summer return, suggesting more time is needed for the former two-division champion to prepare for his next challenge inside the cage.
Treatment by the UFC and Dana White's Stance
McGregor feels that the treatment he has received from the UFC is unfair, especially considering his significant contributions to the sport's popularity and financial success. "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, voicing his dissatisfaction.
Dana White, the president of the UFC, has remained tight-lipped about McGregor's situation, offering no updates on his return. When asked about McGregor and his potential matchups, White simply said he's got "nothing on either one of those guys right now."
Michael Chandler's Focus Shifts Away from McGregor
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding McGregor's UFC future, fellow lightweight contender Michael Chandler has shifted his focus to a different opponent, expressing interest in a fight with Nate Diaz instead. This move indicates that potential opponents are moving forward without McGregor as they shape their own career trajectories.
The Pacquiao Challenge and Legal Dispute
In a surprising twist, McGregor has issued a public challenge to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a match in Saudi Arabia. The callout comes amid a legal dispute where McGregor claims Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars. McGregor's boldness extended to the weight class debate, suggesting Pacquiao should come up to his weight if the bout were to materialize. "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed. "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?" he added, questioning Pacquiao's willingness to meet his terms.
McGregor didn't stop there, pushing the envelope by suggesting mixed rules for the fight. "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?" McGregor remarked, challenging the conventions of traditional boxing matches.
McGregor's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor has only competed four times, a surprisingly low number for a fighter of his caliber. His record during this period includes a single victory against Donald Cerrone and losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier (twice). The infrequency of his fights has not only affected his standing within the sport but also left fans eagerly awaiting his full-fledged return.
Final Thoughts
Conor McGregor's career has undoubtedly been one of the most electrifying in MMA history, yet his current predicament highlights the complex nature of professional sports, where injuries, regulations, and disputes can significantly impact an athlete's trajectory. As McGregor awaits a definitive date for his UFC return and flirts with high-profile boxing matches, the sporting world watches with bated breath, anticipating the next chapter in the storied career of 'The Notorious' one.
