Conor McGregor to Skip 2024 UFC Season, Confirms Dana White
Fans anticipating Conor McGregor's return to the Octagon will have to wait longer. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series that McGregor won't be fighting 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 disclosed.
A Disrupted Comeback
The announcement comes as a significant blow to those hoping to see McGregor compete at UFC 303, where he was initially scheduled to face Michael Chandler in late June. The bout was highly anticipated, given the duo's rivalry fostering during season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," where they served as opposing coaches. The season began filming in February 2023, sparking a buildup that has since fizzled out.
However, an unfortunate training injury derailed plans. McGregor suffered a broken pinky toe, which led to his withdrawal from the UFC 303 event. Despite various efforts to reschedule the fight with Chandler, logistical challenges and McGregor's recovery timeline made it increasingly improbable.
Frustrations and Speculation
The potential showdown between McGregor and Chandler faced delays and uncertainty from the outset. Speculation suggested a possible fight in December, but White has now clarified that fans won't see McGregor in action this year. This development leaves McGregor's record standing at 1-3 since November 2016, with his only victory in that period being a swift TKO win against Donald Cerrone.
Michael Chandler's recent career arc mirrors McGregor's struggles. Chandler last fought in November 2022, where he was submitted by Dustin Poirier. Over his previous four fights, Chandler holds a similar 1-3 record, amplifying the intrigue around a potential clash between two fighters seeking redemption.
Career Woes and Legal Troubles
McGregor's turbulent career since 2016 has witnessed not only losses inside the Octagon but also publicized legal issues and multiple hints at retirement. These factors contribute to the growing uncertainty surrounding his future in the sport. While fans and analysts alike continue to debate his legacy, McGregor's absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the UFC's star-studded lineup for the foreseeable future.
Chandler, on the other hand, remains an active contender, albeit with a daunting task of rebuilding momentum after recent setbacks. The possibility of a future encounter with McGregor still holds the promise of excitement and unpredictability, should circumstances eventually align.
As the narrative around McGregor versus Chandler evolves, the UFC community remains keenly attentive. For now, though, the focus shifts to other fighters and matchups that will headline the upcoming events. Whether or not McGregor can re-establish his dominance in the UFC remains a subject of intrigue and speculation, continuing to capture the imagination of MMA enthusiasts worldwide.