Conor McGregor’s much-anticipated return to the UFC has hit another snag, with UFC CEO Dana White confirming that the former two-division champion will not be stepping back into the Octagon in 2024.
White confirmed McGregor's absence during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series. This news comes after a series of delays and complications that have marred McGregor’s planned bout with Michael Chandler. "We talked. We talked. We didn't meet up but we talked, and yeah, he wants to fight. So we'll figure it out. [But] not this year. He won't fight this year," said White.
Injuries and Delays
Initially set to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June, McGregor's plans were thwarted once again. During a training session, McGregor suffered a broken pinky toe, which forced him to withdraw from the highly anticipated showdown. Despite efforts to reschedule the fight, it never materialized, leaving fans and pundits speculating about his return.
Rumors suggested a possible clash between McGregor and Chandler in December, but White's recent comments have clarified that McGregor will not see any action this year. This marks another chapter of delays and uncertainties surrounding McGregor's career, which has been a rollercoaster ride since capturing the lightweight title in November 2016.
Coaching "The Ultimate Fighter"
Adding to the intrigue, McGregor and Chandler served as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. The role as a coach re-introduced McGregor to the UFC ecosystem but did little to accelerate his return to competition. The buildup to the McGregor-Chandler fight has been fraught with multiple delays and lingering questions.
With this latest setback, the enigma surrounding McGregor's return continues. Since November 2016, McGregor's UFC record has spiraled to a less-than-stellar 1-3. His sole victory came against Donald Cerrone, a brief moment of triumph in an otherwise turbulent period.Chandler's Recent Record
Michael Chandler has also faced his share of challenges. His last fight in November 2022 ended in a submission loss to Dustin Poirier. Over his last four fights, Chandler's record mirrors McGregor’s at 1-3. The combined struggles of both fighters have only compounded the anticipation and speculation surrounding their potential clash.
The ongoing saga leaves a sense of unfinished business between McGregor and Chandler. As fans hold their breath, the UFC landscape continues to evolve, waiting for the day when "The Notorious" Conor McGregor makes his highly awaited comeback.
Until then, McGregor's storyline remains one of tantalizing potential and lingering questions. His retirement teases and off-the-ring troubles have added layers to his already complex persona. For now, the only certainty is that McGregor will not be fighting in 2024, leaving the UFC world to wonder what the future holds for one of its most polarizing figures.