Conor McGregor, one of the most polarizing figures in mixed martial arts, will not make his anticipated return to the Octagon in 2024. UFC CEO Dana White put an end to months of speculation during a recent post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series, clarifying that the former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion's comeback is on hold.
The notable absence stems from an injury McGregor sustained during a training session. The fighter suffered a broken pinky toe, a setback that has sidelined him from the slated UFC 303 bout against Michael Chandler initially scheduled for late June. This bout was highly anticipated, as it marked McGregor's first fight since his well-publicized leg break against Dustin Poirier in July 2021.
A Delayed Duel
Fans of the Irish superstar were hopeful for the matchup with Chandler, especially after seeing them square off as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter" which began filming in February 2023. Their competitive chemistry on the show only fueled excitement, but despite efforts from both camps, the fight never saw the light of day.
Rumors circulated that the bout could be rescheduled for December, but White extinguished those hopes. “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,” White confirmed.
McGregor's UFC career has been a rollercoaster since his meteoric rise to fame. His record since November 2016 stands at a somber 1-3. The sole victory during this period came against Donald Cerrone, a win that now feels like a distant memory for fans who remember McGregor's dominant reign.
Legal Troubles and Retirement Teases
Outside the Octagon, McGregor has faced numerous legal issues and has flirted with retirement on multiple occasions. These issues have only added to the uncertainty surrounding his career, making his absence from the sport even more palpable. Each time he announced his retirement, the MMA community was left speculating whether it was for good or simply another publicity stunt.
Chandler, on the other hand, last fought in November 2022, losing by submission to Dustin Poirier. His recent UFC record is equally unflattering at 1-3 over his last four fights. Despite this, a clash with McGregor promised rejuvenation for both fighters' careers, drawing significant attention and hype from the media and fanbase alike.
The Future Remains Unclear
The buildup to the McGregor-Chandler fight was mired in delays and uncertainties, much like McGregor’s recent career trajectory. While fans remain hopeful for McGregor’s return, the latest turn of events suggests it may be some time before they see "Notorious" back in action.
As the year progresses, both McGregor and Chandler will find themselves at a career crossroads. For McGregor, the focus will undoubtedly be on recovery and careful planning of his next steps in the sport he once dominated. For Chandler, the search for another high-profile opponent to regain momentum in the lightweight division continues.
Until then, fans are left to reminisce about the electric atmosphere McGregor brings to the Octagon, holding onto the hope that one day soon, they will again witness his famed left hand put another opponent to sleep.