Conor McGregor's UFC Return: A Saga of Frustration and Anticipation
The world of mixed martial arts has seen its fair share of drama, but few stories have rivaled the ongoing saga of Conor McGregor's return to the UFC octagon. The former two-division champion has not stepped foot in the cage since July 2021, with a leg injury sidelining him and creating a cascade of delays that have only fueled his frustration.
McGregor's anticipated comeback hit a significant snag due to a procedural issue: he had not re-entered the drug-testing pool in time for a planned return. This oversight has pushed back his eligibility to compete until April 8, 2024. Despite this setback, his coach has hinted at a potential summer return, raising hopes among fans eager to see the Irish superstar back in action.
The fighter's discontent with the UFC has been palpable. McGregor has publicly expressed his feeling of being treated unfairly by the promotion, especially given his significant contributions to the sport's popularity and financial success. His grievances are not just with the UFC but extend to boxing as well, where he has issued a challenge to Manny Pacquiao for a bout in Saudi Arabia.
This challenge comes amidst a legal dispute with Pacquiao, with McGregor claiming the Filipino boxer owes him eight million dollars. The Notorious is no stranger to the boxing ring, having crossed over in 2017 for a lucrative match against Floyd Mayweather Jr. Now, he's looking to settle scores both inside the ring and out, urging Pacquiao to meet him at a higher weight class—a move he equates to taking the high road in combat sports.
Despite his eagerness to return, UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped about any specific plans for McGregor's next fight. Meanwhile, potential opponents have moved on; Michael Chandler, for instance, has turned his attention to a different challenge, eyeing a fight with Nate Diaz instead.
Throughout his career, McGregor has been known for his brash confidence and sharp tongue, both of which are on full display in his recent statements. "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, voicing his exasperation with the UFC's handling of his return.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, underscoring the impact this hiatus has had on his career. The sense of urgency is clear as he continued, "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."
In his call-out to Pacquiao, McGregor didn't hold back, questioning the boxing legend's courage and proposing a fight that would push the boundaries of traditional boxing rules. "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed, challenging the norms of weight classes and combat sports. He further taunted Pacquiao, saying, "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," and suggesting that if the bout were to occur at a lighter weight, then allowances for kicks and grappling should be made to level the playing field.
Since 2016, McGregor's appearances in the octagon have been sparse, with only four fights to his name during this period. These bouts include a victory over Donald Cerrone and losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter defeating him twice. Each fight has been a reminder of McGregor's drawing power, with fans clamoring to see whether he can recapture the magic that once made him the most feared man in MMA.
As the combat sports community watches on, the question remains: when will Conor McGregor make his grand return? With his entry into the drug-testing pool confirmed, the countdown to April 2024 begins. Until then, speculation and anticipation will continue to swirl around the enigmatic figure of Conor McGregor, whose next move is as unpredictable as his fighting style.