McGregor's UFC Return: A Saga of Frustration and Delays
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has voiced significant frustration with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) over his prolonged absence from the octagon. The Irish superstar, known for his brash personality and exceptional fighting skills, has been sidelined since July 2021 due to a severe leg injury sustained in his last bout.
Despite his eagerness to return to competition, McGregor's comeback has faced setbacks. One such delay was attributed to his failure to re-enter the drug-testing pool in time to facilitate an earlier return. Compliance with the UFC's Anti-Doping Policy is mandatory for all fighters, and McGregor's omission pushed back his potential return date significantly.
However, McGregor rectified this by joining the drug-testing pool in October, setting the stage for a possible return to the UFC on April 8, 2024. His coach hinted at a summer comeback, suggesting that McGregor's fans might have to wait a bit longer to see the famed fighter back in action.
The relationship between McGregor and the UFC appears strained, with McGregor expressing a sense of unfair treatment by the organization. "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," McGregor lamented, highlighting his significant contributions to the sport and its revenue.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, emphasizing the impact of his absence on 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."
UFC President Dana White, when questioned about McGregor's situation, remarked that he had "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," referring to McGregor and potential opponents. This lack of clarity from the UFC's top executive only adds to the ambiguity surrounding McGregor's future in the sport.
McGregor Eyes Boxing Match with Pacquiao
Conor McGregor has also turned his attention outside the UFC, challenging boxing legend Manny Pacquiao to a match in Saudi Arabia. McGregor alleges that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars over a legal dispute, adding another layer to their potential encounter.
"How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed, suggesting a high-profile fight that would surely draw global attention. He went on to question Pacquiao's willingness to meet him at a higher weight class, which would be more favorable to McGregor given the differences in their usual fighting weights.
"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 provocatively asked, challenging Pacquiao's competitive spirit.
"Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," McGregor continued, pushing for advantages in a sport where he is less experienced compared to his potential opponent. "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?" McGregor argued, seeking concessions that would allow him to incorporate elements of mixed martial arts into the boxing match.
McGregor's Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor has stepped into the UFC octagon only four times. His record during this period includes a swift victory over Donald Cerrone and defeats to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter besting him twice. These results stand in contrast to McGregor's earlier career, which was marked by a rapid ascent and numerous victories that established him as one of the sport's most prominent figures.
Meanwhile, Michael Chandler, another top UFC lightweight contender, seems to have shifted focus away from a potential matchup with McGregor. Instead, Chandler has expressed interest in a fight against Nate Diaz, another fan-favorite fighter known for his gritty performances and enduring popularity.
As the MMA community awaits further developments, Conor McGregor remains a central figure in the combat sports conversation, whether inside the cage or through his ventures and challenges outside of it. Fans and pundits alike are left to speculate on when and how "The Notorious" will make his anticipated return to the world of combat sports.