Conor McGregor's absence from the Octagon will extend into 2024, as confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series. For fans and fighters alike, this news marks a significant shift in the UFC landscape, especially given the highly anticipated matchup that was supposed to feature McGregor.
Initially, McGregor was slated to make his return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. With both fighters renowned for their striking prowess and competitive spirit, the bout promised a thrilling contest. The excitement was further fueled by their roles as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which kicked off its filming in February 2023. However, McGregor's plans were derailed by an unfortunate injury—he broke his pinky toe during a training session, making it impossible for him to compete as scheduled.
The injury led to a series of delays and speculations. Despite efforts to reschedule, the much-anticipated McGregor-Chandler fight never found a new date. Rumors swirled around a possible December showdown, but Dana White has since put those talks to rest. "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," said White, quelling hopes of an imminent return for the Irish fighter.
McGregor's track record since November 2016 has been a rollercoaster. With only one victory against Donald Cerrone, his UFC record stands at 1-3 over this period. Legal troubles and multiple retirement teases have also punctuated his career, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding his return to form. Fans and critics alike have been left wondering if McGregor can rekindle the fire that once made him a two-division champion.
On the other side of the potential bout, Michael Chandler has also faced his share of ups and downs. Chandler last fought in November 2022, where he suffered a submission loss to Dustin Poirier. Coincidentally, like McGregor, Chandler has a recent UFC record of 1-3 over his last four fights. Despite these challenges, Chandler remains a formidable opponent, known for his resilience and knockout power.
The McGregor-Chandler fight had all the ingredients of a classic showdown. The frustrations of both fighters, stemming from delays and uncertainties, only added to the narrative. However, with McGregor now confirmed out for the remainder of 2024, Chandler will need to seek another high-profile fight to solidify his stand in the UFC.
The announcement of McGregor's extended hiatus leaves a gap in the UFC roster that fighters will be eager to fill. For the time being, Dana White and the UFC will have to pivot their promotional efforts and fight cards to maintain excitement and viewership. While the Irish fighter's comeback is still on the horizon, 2024 will be another year of waiting for McGregor's legion of supporters.
As the UFC continues to evolve, the promise of a McGregor return still holds significant weight. Until then, fans can only speculate on when—and whether—McGregor will make a triumphant return to the Octagon.