After a long wait, fans will finally get a clear answer on when Conor McGregor will return to the UFC cage. As the MMA superstar shared this weekend, he will announce the details on New Year’s Day.
McGregor hasn’t fought since he experienced an injury in his bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. While still recovering, his re-entry into the USADA testing pool intensified speculations of his comeback. Subsequently, “The Notorious” joined as a coach alongside Michael Chandler for The Ultimate Fighter Season 31, fueling expectations of a potential showdown between the two at the season’s conclusion. Although the anticipated fight did not come to fruition, “Iron” remains a prime candidate to challenge the returning Irish fighter in the ring.
McGregor’s team later revealed that they were pushing to make his return possible at UFC 300, but the fighter suggested that it was uncertain after blasting the UFC for his inactivity. After this, UFC CEO Dana White shared that the promotion is in talks with McGregor, promising that both parties “will get something figured out soon.”
Now, it seems the talks are materializing as the Irish fighter will finally share the date of his next fight.
“I will be announcing my fight date and opponent on New Years Day, 2024,” McGregor posted.
This should end the questions and rumors surrounding McGregor’s return, alongside the name of the fighter who will welcome him back into the cage. According to past reports, Michael Chandler is the top choice to take this role. Yet, there’s still uncertainty about it, with Audie Attar, McGregor’s manager, saying “there are other opponents” available as well.
