McGregor's UFC Return in Limbo
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has voiced his dissatisfaction with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), expressing frustration over his prolonged absence from the octagon. The Irish superstar has not competed since suffering a leg injury in July 2021, which has led to a significant hiatus from mixed martial arts competition.
Adding to the delay of his return, McGregor was sidelined due to his non-participation in the drug-testing pool, a necessary step for fighters looking to compete under the UFC banner. Having entered the drug-testing pool in October, McGregor is now eligible to return to competition on April 8, 2024. Despite this, his coach has hinted at a potential comeback during the summer season.
The fighter has publicly stated that he feels mistreated by the organization, citing the lack of a definitive date for his next fight as a primary grievance. "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.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor continued, highlighting the impact of his inactivity on his career. "This is my job. It's beyond frustrating. … 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."
White Offers No Clarity on McGregor's Situation
UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped regarding the situation, stating that he has "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," referring to McGregor and any potential opponents.
In the meantime, other fighters have moved on to different opportunities. Notably, Michael Chandler has shifted his focus to a potential bout with Nate Diaz, seemingly bypassing a chance to face McGregor.
McGregor Eyes Boxing Match with Pacquiao
While his MMA future remains uncertain, McGregor has turned his attention to the boxing ring once more, challenging Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao to a match in Saudi Arabia. McGregor's call-out comes amid a financial dispute with Pacquiao, with the Irishman claiming that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars over a legal matter.
McGregor's challenge to Pacquiao included a taunt directed at the boxer's willingness to meet at a higher weight class. "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 further provoked Pacquiao, suggesting a mix of combat styles if the fight were to take place at a smaller weight. "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," McGregor said. "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's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor's appearances inside the UFC octagon have been sparse, with only four fights to his name during this period. His record in these bouts includes a victory over Donald Cerrone and defeats at the hands of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter defeating McGregor twice.
As the MMA community awaits further developments, McGregor's future in combat sports remains a topic of intense speculation. Whether his return will be within the UFC's famed octagon or the squared circle of boxing is yet to be determined. What is clear is that Conor McGregor remains a prominent figure in the world of combat sports, and his next move is eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike.