McGregor's Frustration with UFC Over Return Delays
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has expressed significant frustration regarding his prolonged absence from the Octagon. Since suffering a leg injury in July 2021, McGregor has been sidelined, and his anticipated return to mixed martial arts competition has faced repeated setbacks.
The Irish fighter's comeback was initially delayed due to his failure to re-enter the drug-testing pool, a mandatory process for all active competitors under the UFC's Anti-Doping Policy. McGregor rectified this in October, entering the testing pool and setting the stage for a possible return to action on April 8, 2024.
Despite this development, McGregor's coach hinted at a potential summer comeback, which would mark nearly three years since "The Notorious" last competed inside the cage. This extended period of inactivity has left McGregor feeling aggrieved, believing that he has not been afforded the same considerations as other fighters given the significant revenue he has generated for the organization over the years.
White Remains Tight-Lipped on McGregor's Future
UFC President Dana White has remained notably tight-lipped when questioned about the specifics of McGregor's return, offering no updates or confirmations. This silence has only compounded McGregor's irritation as he seeks clarity on his fighting future.
Meanwhile, fellow lightweight contender Michael Chandler appears to have shifted his focus away from a potential bout with McGregor, instead expressing interest in a fight against Nate Diaz. This move suggests that McGregor's return may not be imminent and that matchups are being made without him in the picture.
McGregor Eyes Boxing Match Against Pacquiao
In the midst of these uncertainties within the UFC, McGregor has turned his attention to the boxing ring, issuing a challenge to boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a bout in Saudi Arabia. The callout comes amid a legal dispute, with McGregor claiming that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars. The nature of the dispute remains unclear, but it has not deterred McGregor from seeking a confrontation under boxing rules.
McGregor's audacious challenge includes a stipulation that Pacquiao meet him at a higher weight class, arguing that since boxing is Pacquiao's domain, the Filipino icon should be willing to compromise on weight. McGregor further provoked Pacquiao by suggesting that if he is required to fight at a lighter weight, then he should be allowed to utilize a more diverse set of combat skills, including kicks and grappling, to level the playing field.
McGregor's Limited Activity and Legacy
Conor McGregor's recent career has been marked by sporadic appearances, with only four fights since 2016. His record during this time includes a sole victory against Donald Cerrone and defeats at the hands of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier, whom he faced twice. These results have led to scrutiny over McGregor's legacy and standing in the sport, with many questioning whether he can regain the form that once made him the UFC's biggest star.
McGregor's own words reflect a deep-seated exasperation with his current situation. "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," he lamented. He continued, highlighting the personal toll of his hiatus, "I've been kept from my living for almost three years now. 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."
As McGregor awaits a definitive answer from the UFC, the sports world watches with bated breath. Will the fiery Irishman make a triumphant return to the UFC, or will he pivot to boxing to settle scores outside the MMA realm? Only time will tell, but what remains clear is that Conor McGregor is eager to step back into the spotlight and prove that he still belongs among the elite combatants in either arena.