Conor McGregor's Comeback Trail
The world of mixed martial arts has witnessed its fair share of drama, but few fighters have been at the center of as much controversy and anticipation as Conor McGregor. The former two-division UFC champion has expressed significant frustration with the organization, citing a series of setbacks that have kept him out of the octagon since his last fight in July 2021.
McGregor's absence from competition has been prolonged due to a severe leg injury, which has sidelined him for an extended period. Despite this, his eagerness to return to fighting remains undiminished. However, his comeback was further delayed when he failed to re-enter the drug-testing pool in a timely fashion—a necessary step for any fighter looking to compete under the UFC's stringent anti-doping policies.
It wasn't until October that McGregor entered the drug-testing pool, setting the stage for a potential return to competition on April 8, 2024. His coach has hinted at a summer return, aligning with McGregor's desire to get back into the fight game.
Feeling of Unfair Treatment
Amidst these developments, McGregor has voiced his belief that he has been treated unfairly by the UFC. He argues that no other fighter has faced such treatment, especially considering the revenue he has generated for the company over the years. His contributions to the sport have been significant, yet he feels sidelined in what he describes as being kept from his livelihood for nearly three years.
"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, expressing his exasperation over the lack of a confirmed date for his return.
This sentiment is echoed in his further comments, "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."
Dana White's Stance
In contrast, UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped about the situation, offering no updates on either McGregor's return or his future matchups. When pressed for information, White simply stated he's "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," leaving fans and McGregor alike in a state of suspense.
A Potential Boxing Match
While his future in MMA remains uncertain, McGregor has turned some of his attention to the boxing ring, challenging Manny Pacquiao to a bout in Saudi Arabia. This proposed matchup comes amidst a legal dispute, with McGregor claiming Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars. His challenge to Pacquiao carries McGregor's signature bravado, pushing for the fight to occur at a higher weight class and questioning Pacquiao's willingness to meet the terms.
"How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed, adding, "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?"
Continuing his provocations, McGregor said, "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class. 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's Recent Fight Record
Despite his larger-than-life persona and considerable achievements in the past, McGregor's recent record in the UFC tells a story of sporadic appearances and mixed results. Since 2016, he has stepped into the octagon only four times, securing a win against Donald Cerrone but suffering defeats to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter defeating him twice.
As the MMA community waits for official word on his next move, McGregor's position in the sport remains a topic of intense speculation and debate. Whether his return will be in the UFC or a boxing ring—or perhaps both—remains to be seen. What is clear is that the fighter known as 'The Notorious' is far from finished with his combat sports journey, and the eyes of the world will be watching when he finally makes his anticipated return.