During a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series, UFC CEO Dana White put to rest any speculation surrounding Conor McGregor's return to the Octagon in 2024. "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 confirmed, addressing the brewing anticipation among fans and pundits.
An Unexpected Setback
McGregor's absence marks a longer hiatus for the fighter who was initially scheduled to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. The highly anticipated bout was derailed when McGregor sustained a broken pinky toe during a training session, forcing him to withdraw. The setback added another chapter to the already complex narrative of McGregor's career post-2016.
Coaching Rivalry Thwarted
Fans had hoped to see McGregor and Chandler settle scores in the Octagon after their stint as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. Despite the excitement generated from their coaching rivalry, the fight faced multiple delays and uncertainties. Efforts to reschedule the clash proved futile, resulting in disappointment for many.
Chandler Also in Limbo
Michael Chandler, who last fought in November 2022 and lost by submission to Dustin Poirier, shares a similarly turbulent recent UFC record. With a 1-3 record in his last four fights, Chandler was eager for the opportunity to bolster his standing with a win over a marquee name like McGregor. However, with no rescheduled bout in sight, Chandler’s future in the UFC remains uncertain.
Mixed Fortunes for McGregor
Since November 2016, Conor McGregor's UFC record stands at 1-3, a stark contrast to his former glory days. His only victory came against Donald Cerrone, a win that offered a brief respite but failed to mark a turnaround. Alongside his mixed martial arts struggles, McGregor has faced legal troubles and teased retirement multiple times, adding layers to his already intricate public persona.
A Lingering Question
Speculation had been rife that McGregor might make a return for a December bout against Chandler. However, Dana White’s confirmation quashes any lingering hopes. The decision to keep McGregor out of the Octagon for the remainder of the year leaves fans to wonder about his next move. Will he return with the same vigor, or will his prolonged absence weigh heavily on his performance?
As both fighters navigate their uncertain futures, the UFC must also adapt, continuously evolving in an ever-competitive landscape. The organization, which thrives on big names and high-profile bouts, must recalibrate for a 2024 without one of its most iconic fighters, while Chandler’s journey may pivot based on upcoming opportunities.
The world of mixed martial arts waits with bated breath, eager to see what lies ahead for Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler. While 2024 might not see their anticipated showdown, the stories of both fighters are far from over.