McGregor's Frustration with UFC
Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The former two-division champion has been on the sidelines since July 2021, following a leg injury sustained in his last bout. McGregor's anticipated return to the octagon has faced further delays, not due to injury recovery but because of a hiatus from the drug-testing pool—a mandatory requirement for all active fighters.
After re-entering the drug-testing pool in October, McGregor is now eligible to compete again starting April 8, 2024. However, despite this clearance, the exact date of his UFC comeback remains uncertain. His coach has hinted at a potential return during the summer season, aligning with McGregor's eagerness to resume fighting.
The Irishman has made it clear that he believes the UFC has treated him unfairly. With no definitive update from UFC President Dana White on when McGregor will fight next, the fighter's frustration is palpable.
"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 stated, reflecting on the impact he believes he has had on the sport and the organization.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, underscoring the personal and professional toll of his absence from competition. "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."
White's Silence and Chandler's Focus Shift
Dana White, known for his outspoken nature, has remained tight-lipped regarding the situation, offering no insights into McGregor's future matchups or return date. "Got nothing on either one of those guys right now," White said, leaving fans and pundits alike speculating about the company's plans for one of its biggest stars.
Meanwhile, Michael Chandler, another top lightweight contender, seems to have shifted his focus away from a potential fight with McGregor. Instead, Chandler has expressed interest in a matchup with Nate Diaz, another popular figure in the sport, indicating a possible redirection of the division's landscape in McGregor's absence.
McGregor's Boxing Ambitions
Amidst the uncertainty within the UFC, McGregor has cast his sights on a different combat sports venture. He issued a challenge to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a bout in Saudi Arabia. This callout comes amidst a reported legal dispute between the two, with McGregor claiming Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars.
"How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed, seeking to entice the Filipino boxer into a high-profile contest. McGregor also addressed the weight class issue, suggesting that Pacquiao should move up in weight to face him. "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 questioned, challenging Pacquiao's willingness to compromise on fight terms.
Further elaborating on the conditions of the proposed boxing match, McGregor argued for a more even playing field. "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," he 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 comments suggest a desire for concessions that would typically be outside the norms of professional boxing rules.
McGregor's Recent Fight History
Conor McGregor's recent years in the UFC have seen limited activity, with only four fights since 2016. His record during this period includes a swift victory over Donald Cerrone and two losses to Dustin Poirier. Additionally, McGregor suffered a defeat to Khabib Nurmagomedov in what was one of the most highly anticipated fights in UFC history.
As the MMA community awaits further developments, McGregor's future—both inside the UFC octagon and potentially in the boxing ring—remains a topic of intense speculation and debate. With his competitive spirit clearly undiminished, fans are eager to see what's next for the charismatic and controversial fighter.