Conor McGregor's Return Delayed to 2024
Conor McGregor, one of the most electrifying figures in mixed martial arts, will not be stepping back into the Octagon in 2024. The news was confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White during a recent post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series.
Fans had eagerly anticipated McGregor’s return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. Unfortunately, a training session mishap resulted in a broken pinky toe for McGregor, forcing him to withdraw from the event. Despite efforts to reschedule, the fight between McGregor and Chandler never materialized.
Earlier in the year, McGregor and Chandler built up their rivalry as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. The season was filled with intensity and drama, setting the stage for what was expected to be a blockbuster showdown. However, as events unfolded, the highly anticipated bout faced multiple delays and uncertainties.
Tying down an exact date seemed to be a Sisyphean task. Speculation swirled around a potential December fight, but Dana White clarified that McGregor won’t be fighting this year. "We talked. We talked. We didn't meet up but we talked, and yeah, he wants to fight. So we'll figure it out. [But] not this year. He won't fight this year," White stated.
A Struggling Record
Looking back at his recent career, McGregor's performance in the UFC has been lackluster since November 2016. With a record of 1-3, his only victory came against Donald Cerrone. Far from echoing the dominance he once exhibited, McGregor's recent narrative has been one of challenges inside and outside the cage. Legal troubles and multiple teases of retirement have also marred his reputation.
Michael Chandler's Prospect
On the other side of the equation, Michael Chandler hasn't fared much better recently. Chandler's last fight occurred in November 2022, where he lost by submission to Dustin Poirier. Over his last four bouts, Chandler also holds a 1-3 record, adding another layer of intrigue to a clash with McGregor that seems perpetually just out of reach.
The buildup to the McGregor-Chandler fight had fans salivating. Both fighters have a knack for delivering high-octane, memorable performances. Yet, the delays and ongoing uncertainty have left many wondering if this bout will ever come to fruition. With the year rapidly drawing to a close and McGregor recovering from his injury, fans will have to wait until 2024 at the earliest to see these two titans potentially clash inside the Octagon.
Uncertain Future
As it stands, the future remains uncertain for both fighters. McGregor has to navigate his recovery and refocus on reclaiming his former glory, while Chandler must seek to rebound from recent setbacks. For now, the speculation will continue, and fans will keep wondering when and if this high-voltage matchup will finally take place.
While Dana White’s confirmation has put to rest any rumors of a McGregor fight for the remainder of this year, one thing remains clear: the anticipation and appetite for McGregor’s return are undiminished. Whether he will be able to rise to the occasion when the time comes, only time will tell. But one thing is for sure, the MMA world will be watching closely.