McGregor's Frustration with UFC
Former two-division champion Conor McGregor has expressed significant frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) due to a series of delays and setbacks that have kept him out of the Octagon. The Irish superstar has not competed since suffering a leg injury in July 2021, which has led to a prolonged absence from mixed martial arts competition.
Adding to McGregor's grievances is the delay in his return caused by his late entry into the drug-testing pool. Athletes must be in the testing pool for a period before they are eligible to compete, and McGregor only re-entered this pool in October. Consequently, his eligibility to fight again is set for April 8, 2024. Despite these hurdles, McGregor's coach has hinted at a potential summer comeback for the fighter.
The relationship between McGregor and the UFC appears strained, with McGregor feeling mistreated compared to other athletes, given his significant contributions to the sport's popularity and revenue. "They never treated anyone – no one has ever been treated [like this] for all the figures I've brought in this game," McGregor stated, highlighting his impact on the sport's financial success.
UFC President Dana White, however, has remained tight-lipped about McGregor's situation, offering no updates on when fans might expect to see the star return to action.
Chandler Eyes Diaz, McGregor Challenges Pacquiao
While McGregor's UFC future remains uncertain, fellow lightweight contender Michael Chandler has shifted his focus to a potential bout with Nate Diaz, another popular figure in the organization. This move suggests that a matchup between Chandler and McGregor is unlikely in the immediate future.
Outside the UFC, McGregor has reignited interest in a crossover boxing match by challenging boxing icon Manny Pacquiao. McGregor is looking to settle a legal dispute with Pacquiao, claiming the Filipino boxer owes him eight million dollars. McGregor proposed that the two settle their differences in the ring in Saudi Arabia.
Notably, McGregor has taken this opportunity to assert his terms for the potential bout, suggesting that Pacquiao should come up to a higher weight class. "Considering it's his sport. Would you think that's what a man would do versus what a mouse would do?" McGregor questioned, challenging Pacquiao's willingness to meet him at a weight more favorable to McGregor.
McGregor further argued that if he were to agree to a lower weight class, then it would only be fair for him to utilize a broader set of combat techniques, including kicks and grappling, which are not typically permitted in professional boxing.
A Look at McGregor's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor's appearances in the UFC have been sparse, with only four fights to his name during this period. His record in these bouts includes a victory over Donald Cerrone but also includes losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter defeating McGregor twice.
Despite the setbacks and controversies, McGregor's star power remains undiminished. His ability to draw attention and generate buzz, whether through his performances inside the cage or his activities outside of it, continues to make him one of the most talked-about figures in combat sports.
As the MMA community awaits McGregor's next move, his statements reflect a deep-seated desire to return to competition. "I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor lamented, signaling his eagerness to resume his career. "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."
Whether McGregor will make his much-anticipated UFC return or step into the boxing ring against Manny Pacquiao remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: the sports world will be watching closely as the saga of Conor McGregor continues to unfold.