McGregor's Frustration with UFC
Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) over his prolonged absence from the octagon. Having been sidelined since July 2021 due to a leg injury sustained in a bout against Dustin Poirier, McGregor is eager to return to competition.
The Irish fighter's comeback was further postponed as he had not re-entered the drug-testing pool in time to compete earlier. However, after entering the pool in October, he is now eligible to fight again on April 8, 2024. Despite this clearance, McGregor's coach has hinted at a potential return in the summer, possibly indicating a more strategic timeline for his fighter's return to peak condition.
McGregor has voiced strong feelings of being mistreated by the organization, claiming that no other fighter has faced such treatment considering the significant revenue he has generated for the UFC over the years. His discontent stems from the delays and lack of a confirmed date for his next fight, which he insists is critical for him to resume what he considers not just a sport but his livelihood.
White and Chandler's Stance
Dana White, the UFC president, has remained tight-lipped about any specific details regarding McGregor's return, stating he has "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," referring to McGregor and potential opponents. Meanwhile, lightweight contender Michael Chandler has shifted focus to Nate Diaz, another popular figure in the sport, as a potential adversary, steering clear of the uncertainty surrounding McGregor's schedule.
McGregor's Boxing Ambitions
In a surprising twist, Conor McGregor has called out boxing legend Manny Pacquiao for a bout in Saudi Arabia. This challenge comes amidst an ongoing legal dispute, with McGregor asserting that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars. The call-out is bold, given McGregor's limited professional boxing experience, having only stepped into the boxing ring against Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2017.
McGregor's challenge to Pacquiao also included a stipulation regarding weight classes. The MMA star proposed that Pacquiao should move up in weight to face him, framing it as a matter of pride and fairness, considering boxing is Pacquiao's domain. McGregor went further, suggesting that if he were to drop down in weight to accommodate Pacquiao, then it would only be fair for him to be allowed to use a wider array of combat techniques, including kicks and grappling—elements not permitted in traditional boxing.
Recent Fight Record
Since 2016, McGregor has competed infrequently in the UFC, stepping into the octagon only four times. His record during this period includes a single victory over Donald Cerrone and three losses: one to Khabib Nurmagomedov and two to Dustin Poirier. Each of these bouts has been highly anticipated and has drawn substantial attention from fans and media alike, underscoring McGregor's status as one of the most prominent figures in mixed martial arts.
McGregor's Quotes Reflecting Discontent
McGregor's frustration is palpable in his recent statements. He lamented, "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 further emphasized the personal toll of the situation, saying, "I've been kept from my living for almost three years now."
The fighter's impatience is evident as he seeks clarity on his future bouts: "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 remarks underscore McGregor's eagerness to return to active competition and resolve his standing with the UFC.
In conclusion, while Conor McGregor's future in the UFC remains uncertain, his intent to return to fighting—whether inside the octagon or the boxing ring—is unequivocal. With fans eagerly anticipating his next move, the combat sports community will be closely watching for developments on McGregor's return and potential high-profile matchups.