Conor McGregor will not make his UFC return in 2024, despite his initial hopes. McGregor has been sidelined since breaking his leg during his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. Although a bout with Michael Chandler was scheduled for June 29, 2023, at UFC 303, McGregor had to withdraw after breaking his toe in training. UFC President Dana White has now confirmed that McGregor’s comeback will be delayed until early 2025.
White, speaking ahead of UFC 306, mentioned that despite the bout being set up and announced, McGregor’s return will not happen this year. The UFC is targeting the beginning of 2025 for his next fight, though McGregor has shown eagerness to compete sooner, even proposing a December 2024 showdown against Chandler. White’s confirmation, however, pushes any potential fight into the new year.
McGregor hasn’t publicly responded to this delay, but many, including Jake Paul, have speculated on the reasons for the hold-up. Paul suggested that McGregor’s absence might be tied to the UFC’s ongoing TV rights negotiations. According to him, McGregor has two fights left on his UFC contract, and the promotion is likely holding off on scheduling a fight to use McGregor as leverage in securing a new TV rights deal.
Despite his wealth, White believes McGregor’s hunger for competition remains, but only time will tell how he performs once he’s back in the Octagon.
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