UFC superstar Conor McGregor, who hasn’t stepped into the octagon for four years, may be gearing up for a comeback, according to his close business associate. Earlier this month, former US President Donald Trump revealed plans for a UFC event on the White House lawn next year, with McGregor, Jon Jones, and other top fighters expressing interest in participating.
UFC CEO Dana White has promised to make this White House event even bigger than last year’s Las Vegas ball, potentially boosting its success significantly. Since his leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264, McGregor has teased a return to the UFC cage multiple times. While many doubt his comeback after nearly five years, a key figure close to McGregor insists the return is real.
David Feldman, president of Bare Knuckle FC, recently shared that McGregor told him he has two fights left on his UFC contract and is ready to make a comeback, possibly starting with the White House event. McGregor reportedly confirmed he is back in the UFC drug testing pool, which means after a minimum six-month wait, he could be cleared to fight again.
Despite recent losses, McGregor remains one of the UFC’s greatest fighters, famously becoming the first to hold two simultaneous world titles after defeating Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205. If Feldman’s claim holds true, a matchup between McGregor and Michael Chandler could headline the White House event. However, McGregor’s promotion might expect the UFC to sign some of their top fighters in exchange for McGregor’s return, adding complexity to the negotiations.
McGregor’s recent performances include a first-round knockout win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246, despite losing three of his last four fights. Meanwhile, his protégé Lee Hammond, though eliminated from The Ultimate Fighter 31, continues to rise as a promising MMA prospect.
Fan Take: McGregor’s potential return is electrifying news for fight fans, reigniting hopes of seeing one of the sport’s most iconic figures back in action. This comeback could not only boost UFC’s profile but also bring intense, high-stakes matchups that elevate MMA’s global appeal.