Conor McGregor's UFC Return: A Timeline of Frustration and Anticipation
Mixed martial arts superstar Conor McGregor has voiced his frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), citing delays in his return to the octagon. The former two-division champion has been sidelined since July 2021 due to a leg injury, which has significantly prolonged his absence from competition.
McGregor's anticipated comeback faced further postponement as he did not enter the drug-testing pool in time to compete earlier. However, after entering the pool in October, he is now eligible to fight again on April 8, 2024. Despite this clarity, McGregor's coach hinted at a potential summer return, suggesting additional time may be required for the Irishman's preparation.
Treatment by the UFC and a Potential Boxing Match
The Dublin native has expressed a sense of unfair treatment by the UFC, contrasting his significant contributions to the sport's popularity with the organization's handling of his situation. UFC President Dana White, when asked for an update on McGregor's status, stated that he had "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," referring to McGregor and potential opponent Michael Chandler.
As MMA fans speculate about his next move, McGregor has pivoted attention to the boxing world by challenging Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao to a bout in Saudi Arabia. This call-out comes amidst a legal dispute where McGregor claims Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars. The challenge includes a provocation for Pacquiao to meet him at a higher weight class, insinuating that a true competitor would accommodate such a request.
A Record Reflecting Highs and Lows
Since 2016, McGregor's activity in the UFC has been sparse, with only four fights to his name. His record during this period includes a swift victory over Donald Cerrone but also back-to-back losses to Dustin Poirier and a submission defeat to Khabib Nurmagomedov. These results have left fans and analysts alike pondering the future competitiveness of the 'Notorious' one upon his return.
McGregor's Own Words
In his own words, McGregor has conveyed deep exasperation with the current state of affairs. He lamented, "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." This sentiment underscores his feeling of being kept away from what he considers his livelihood for almost three years.
He continued to express the urgency of his situation, "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." These statements reflect a desire to step back into the competitive arena, a place where McGregor has always sought to prove himself.
The fighter's brash confidence shone through when discussing the proposed boxing match with Pacquiao, "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," said McGregor. He then questioned Pacquiao's willingness to fight at a higher weight class, saying, "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?" McGregor's rhetoric suggests he believes concessions should be made by Pacquiao, given McGregor's crossover from MMA to boxing.
McGregor concluded with a provocative question, "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?" This statement potentially alludes to a desire for a hybrid set of rules that could level the playing field between the two combat sports athletes.
As the combat sports community watches closely, McGregor's path forward remains a compelling narrative filled with uncertainty, anticipation, and the promise of high-stakes action—whether inside the UFC's octagon or a boxing ring.