McGregor's UFC Return: A Saga of Frustration and Delay
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) amid a series of setbacks that have kept him from competing since July 2021. The Irish superstar, known for his brash personality and knockout power, has been sidelined due to a leg injury sustained in his last bout, which has significantly impacted his fighting career.
The much-anticipated return of McGregor has faced further delays as he was unable to re-enter the octagon due to not being in the drug-testing pool. It wasn't until October that McGregor entered the pool, setting the stage for his eligibility to compete again on April 8, 2024. Despite this development, McGregor's coach has hinted at a potential return during the summer, raising hopes among fans eager to see the 'Notorious' back in action.
McGregor's grievances with the UFC have become more vocal, as he feels the organization has treated him unfairly compared to other fighters. His frustration is palpable, given the significant revenue and attention he has brought to the sport. "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.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, emphasizing the impact this hiatus has had on his life and career. The fighter's impatience is evident as he awaits a definitive date for his return, stating, "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."
On the other side of the equation, UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped regarding McGregor's situation, offering no updates on when the star might return to the octagon. White's silence has only added to the uncertainty surrounding McGregor's future in the UFC.
McGregor Eyes Boxing Match with Pacquiao
In the midst of his UFC struggles, McGregor has shifted focus to the boxing ring, challenging Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao to a match in Saudi Arabia. McGregor's challenge comes with a personal twist, as he claims Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars over a legal dispute. This proposed bout would mark another high-profile crossover event for McGregor, who previously fought Floyd Mayweather Jr. in a lucrative boxing match in 2017.
McGregor's callout to Pacquiao is loaded with bravado, as he questions the boxer's willingness to fight at a higher weight class. "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed. He continued by taunting Pacquiao, saying, "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?"
He went on to challenge the norms of combat sports, suggesting that if Pacquiao wants him to drop down in weight, then it would only be fair for him to be allowed to use a more diverse set of martial arts techniques. "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," McGregor demanded. "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
Since 2016, McGregor's presence in the UFC has been sporadic, with only four fights to his name during this period. These bouts include a victory over Donald Cerrone and losses to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, the latter defeating McGregor twice. Each of these contests has been met with significant fanfare, underscoring McGregor's status as one of the sport's most compelling figures despite his limited activity.
As the MMA community watches closely, McGregor's future, both inside the UFC's octagon and potentially in the boxing ring, remains a hot topic of discussion. Whether his next appearance will be in mixed martial arts or another boxing spectacle, one thing is certain: Conor McGregor continues to be one of the most talked-about athletes in combat sports.