Will Conor McGregor ever make a true comeback to the Octagon? This question was on many minds leading up to UFC 303, where Dana White scheduled a highly anticipated fight between McGregor and Michael Chandler. Unfortunately, a toe injury forced McGregor to withdraw from the match. Since then, both Dana White and the UFC have remained quiet about McGregor’s potential return, despite the fighter’s repeated calls for a comeback. Recently, another insider has shared thoughts that cast doubt on McGregor’s future in the UFC.
At 36 years old, McGregor generated buzz after appearing on a livestream for Duelbits. While he engaged in various antics during the stream, his behavior raised concerns about his readiness to return to competitive fighting anytime soon.
The uncertainty surrounding McGregor’s comeback was highlighted during an interview on ‘Submission Radio’ with MMA journalist Luke Thomas. After the host shared footage of McGregor partying during the livestream, Thomas expressed his disbelief, stating that McGregor seems to have moved beyond his status as a professional fighter. He likened McGregor’s current persona to that of a casual fan who simply offers opinions on MMA rather than actively participating in it.
Thomas elaborated on this point, suggesting that McGregor has not come to terms with the changes in his life. “He’s slowly morphing into a guy at Buffalo Wild Wings who just has opinions on MMA. I mean, I don’t know. He’s not sober there, so it’s not even, you know—I’m not necessarily judging him for it, per se. But what do I make of it?” He continued, “He’s not fighting; it’s just not a principal—or even a tangential—part of his life right now. I don’t think he’s really made peace with that yet.”
While acknowledging McGregor’s enjoyment of life outside the Octagon, Thomas emphasized that the fighter is not training and seems to be embracing a lifestyle that doesn’t involve serious preparation for a return. Instead, McGregor appears to be indulging in drinking and smoking while sharing his thoughts on the sport. “He’s just out there drinking and smoking weed and having MMA opinions. He’s become an MMA fan now. That’s just what it is. Do you think he fights again?” Thomas questioned.
McGregor’s actions have frustrated Michael Chandler, who has since decided to pursue a fight with Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 instead of waiting indefinitely for McGregor to be ready. Despite his absence from the Octagon, McGregor has continued to call out opponents, including welterweight champion Belal Muhammad. However, the likelihood of that fight occurring remains uncertain.
As for when McGregor might return to competitive fighting, expectations were initially set for a late last year comeback. However, various setbacks have complicated those plans. Recently, at the Anthony Joshua boxing match in London, McGregor attended the heavyweight title fight between Joshua and Daniel Dubois. He turned heads with his flashy suit and a cigar, reminding fans of his larger-than-life personality.
While in London, McGregor encountered journalist Ariel Helwani, who was there covering the event for DAZN. When Helwani pressed McGregor about his plans for a comeback, McGregor indicated he would aim to return at the beginning of next year. “It will be 2025,” he said. He acknowledged that the opponent he had initially scheduled has already been matched, adding, “I take it on board and rock on. My job is to go to the gym and be in shape. Whenever it is and wherever it is, I will be 100 percent ready.”
With two fights left on his contract, McGregor’s next move is crucial, as he will need to compete before considering other promotions. The anticipation around his potential return is palpable, but the question remains: will he be able to reclaim his status in the Octagon, or has he shifted into a new phase of life away from competitive fighting? The MMA community eagerly awaits McGregor’s next steps as he navigates this uncertain terrain. What are your thoughts on this ongoing saga?
“He’s Not Sober” – Conor McGregor Handed Troubling Update as UFC Return Remains in Doubt
