McGregor's UFC Return: A Saga of Frustration and Anticipation
Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The Irish superstar, known for his brash personality and exceptional fighting skills, has not stepped into the octagon since suffering a leg injury in July 2021. This prolonged absence from competition has become a source of contention between McGregor and the UFC.
The highly anticipated return of McGregor to mixed martial arts was pushed back due to a delay in his entry into the drug-testing pool, a mandatory step for all fighters looking to compete under the UFC banner. It wasn't until October that McGregor entered the pool, setting the stage for his eligibility to fight again on April 8, 2024.
Despite this, McGregor's coach has hinted at a potential summer comeback, suggesting that fans may not have to wait until next April to see "The Notorious" back in action. However, the fighter himself has expressed feelings of being treated unfairly by the organization that he helped catapult into mainstream popularity with record-breaking pay-per-view numbers.
UFC President Dana White has remained tight-lipped regarding McGregor's situation, offering no updates on when we might expect to see the star compete again. Meanwhile, other fighters are moving forward with their careers; Michael Chandler, for instance, has shifted his focus to a potential bout with Nate Diaz, another fan favorite.
In a surprising turn of events, McGregor has called out boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, proposing a boxing match in Saudi Arabia. McGregor has accused Pacquiao of owing him eight million dollars over a legal dispute, although the specifics of this claim remain unclear. This challenge adds another layer to McGregor's complex narrative as he continues to seek high-profile opportunities outside the UFC.
Since 2016, McGregor's appearances in the UFC have been sparse, with only four fights to his name during this period. His record includes a single victory against Donald Cerrone and two losses to Dustin Poirier, along with a defeat at the hands of Khabib Nurmagomedov. These bouts have been interspersed with periods of inactivity and ventures into boxing, most notably his 2017 crossover fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr.
McGregor's Own Words Reflect Deep Frustration
McGregor's frustration is palpable when he speaks about his career. "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. He feels that his contributions to the sport have not been reciprocated with the respect and accommodation he deserves.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor said, emphasizing the impact this hiatus has had on his life and career. "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." These words underscore the eagerness and impatience McGregor is experiencing as he awaits a definitive answer from the UFC.
Dana White's response to inquiries about McGregor's future was succinct and noncommittal: "got nothing on either one of those guys right now." This statement suggests that there may be no clear plan for McGregor or a timeline for his return, leaving fans and the fighter himself in limbo.
McGregor's challenge to Pacquiao also reflects his desire to remain active and competitive, even if it means stepping outside his primary sport. "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed. He further taunted Pacquiao, saying, "Tell Manny to grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class," and questioned the fairness of competing at a smaller weight without being allowed to use the full range of mixed martial arts techniques.
"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 argued, showcasing his willingness to adapt but also his insistence on an even playing field.
As the saga of Conor McGregor's return continues, the combat sports community watches with bated breath. Whether it's a summer showdown in the UFC or a boxing match in Saudi Arabia, McGregor's next move is sure to be a spectacle, surrounded by the controversy and excitement that only he can bring.