Conor McGregor, one of the most recognizable names in mixed martial arts, will not return to the Octagon in 2024. UFC CEO Dana White delivered the news during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series, putting an end to months of speculation surrounding McGregor's highly anticipated comeback.
A Delayed Return
The build-up to McGregor's next fight has been fraught with delays and uncertainties. Originally, McGregor was slated to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. However, a broken pinky toe sustained during a rigorous training session forced the Irishman to pull out of the bout, leaving fans and pundits alike disappointed.
McGregor and Chandler had been pitted as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. Despite efforts to reschedule the fight, the matchup has not materialized. Speculation had been rife that McGregor might still meet Chandler in December, but White’s recent comments have put those rumors to rest.
Uncertainty Continues
"We talked. We talked. We didn't meet up but we talked, and yeah, he wants to fight. So we'll figure it out. Not this year. He won't fight this year," White stated, confirming that McGregor’s absence from the Octagon would extend through the remainder of 2023.
This prolonged hiatus has left many wondering about McGregor's future in the sport. Since November 2016, his UFC record stands at a disappointing 1-3. His sole victory during this period was a 40-second knockout against Donald Cerrone. Legal troubles and multiple teasers of retirement have further clouded McGregor’s professional trajectory.
Implications for Michael Chandler
On the other side, Michael Chandler last fought in November 2022, where he suffered a submission loss to Dustin Poirier. Much like McGregor, Chandler’s recent UFC record is less than stellar, standing at 1-3 over his last four fights. His willingness to fight McGregor had been seen as an opportunity for both fighters to redeem their current standing in the UFC.
The planned matchup between McGregor and Chandler had generated significant buzz, but the series of events culminating in more delays have only intensified the frustration among supporters and stakeholders.
The Waiting Game
Both fighters now find themselves at a crossroads. McGregor’s extended absence from the sport continues to be a talking point, not just for his fans, but for the entire MMA community. His impact on the sport extends beyond his performances, influencing pay-per-view buys, merchandise sales, and promotional events. Similarly, Chandler’s career trajectory remains uncertain as he looks for the next opportunity to step back into the Octagon.
As 2024 approaches, Dana White and the UFC are faced with the challenge of realigning their plans amid McGregor's uncertain timeline. White's hope remains that McGregor will eventually return, and fans are left waiting for the day when "The Notorious" once again makes his walk to the cage.
While the anticipation builds and the speculation continues, one thing is clear: the world of UFC will keenly observe every move McGregor makes, both inside and outside the Octagon. Until then, the mixed martial arts universe must embrace the waiting game, filled with questions about what the future holds for one of its most illustrious fighters.