McGregor's 2024 Absence Confirmed by UFC CEO Dana White
Conor McGregor, one of the most polarizing figures in mixed martial arts, will not step back into the Octagon in 2024. The news arrived courtesy of UFC CEO Dana White, who confirmed it during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series on Tuesday night. McGregor's anticipated return had fans buzzing, but now those hopes are dashed, at least for another year.
Originally, McGregor was slated to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. However, the bout fell through when McGregor suffered a broken pinky toe during a training session, forcing him to pull out. This matchup had built significant anticipation as the pair had previously squared off as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. Unfortunately, despite several attempts to reschedule the fight, it never materialized.
After withdrawing from UFC 303, speculation grew that McGregor might still step into the ring in December to face Chandler. But Dana White quickly put those rumors 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," White clarified.
For McGregor, this hiatus adds to a complex chapter in his storied career. Since capturing the lightweight title from Eddie Alvarez in a ground-breaking victory in November 2016, McGregor has struggled to find the same level of success. His UFC record since that historic win stands at 1-3, including three stoppage losses. His lone win during this period came against Donald Cerrone, though it was during the tail end of Cerrone's six-fight losing streak.
McGregor's endeavors outside the sport have also been tumultuous. His high-profile boxing match against Floyd Mayweather Jr. ended in a loss, and he has frequently faced legal troubles and teased retirement from competition numerous times. These diversions have left fans questioning whether the former dual-weight champion can return to his previous form.
On the other side, Michael Chandler, McGregor's intended opponent, has had his own struggles. With a 1-3 record over his most recent four fights, Chandler last competed in a submission loss to Dustin Poirier in November 2022. Like McGregor, Chandler has been seeking a resurgence, and the potential fight against McGregor was seen as a chance for both athletes to redefine themselves.
The buildup to the McGregor-Chandler fight went through its share of ups and downs before it was initially scheduled for UFC 303. Both fighters have substantial followings and bringing them together promised fireworks. However, McGregor's injury and the subsequent delays led to a wave of uncertainty that has now culminated in the bout being indefinitely postponed.
For fans, this news is a disappointment but also perhaps a moment to reflect on McGregor's journey, both in and out of the cage. A fighter known for his bravado and knockout power, his impact on the sport is indisputable. Yet, the string of losses, legal issues, and false retirement alarms cast a shadow over his illustrious career.
What lies ahead for Conor McGregor remains to be seen. Whether he can return to fighting form and regain his status as one of the UFC's most dominant athletes is a question now pushed into 2025 at the earliest. Until then, the MMA world will watch closely, waiting for the next chapter in the saga of "The Notorious" Conor McGregor.