In what comes as a significant update for UFC fans, Conor McGregor will not be stepping back into the Octagon in 2024. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed McGregor's absence during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series. The highly anticipated return bout for the "Notorious" one, initially set against Michael Chandler, has been shelved indefinitely.
Disappointment for Fans
McGregor's impending face-off with Chandler was eagerly awaited, especially after both fighters served as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter," which began filming in February 2023. The fight was initially slated for UFC 303 in late June but was derailed due to McGregor suffering a broken pinky toe during a training session. This injury not only forced him out of UFC 303 but also quashed any immediate hopes of rescheduling the bout.
"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," said Dana White, putting to rest speculation that McGregor might return to face Chandler in December.
McGregor's Tumultuous Journey
The journey has been rocky for McGregor, whose UFC record stands at 1-3 since November 2016. His sole victory came against Donald Cerrone, a fight that drew both praise and skepticism from MMA enthusiasts. In addition to his in-ring struggles, McGregor has faced multiple legal troubles and has teased retirement on several occasions, adding layers of complexity to his already storied career.
The protracted delays and uncertainties surrounding the McGregor-Chandler fight only deepened the frustration for fans and analysts alike. Despite extensive efforts, including potential rescheduling, the fight never came to fruition, leaving many to wonder about the future trajectory of both fighters.
Chandler’s Perspective
Michael Chandler, last seen in action in November 2022, where he suffered a submission loss to Dustin Poirier, hasn't had the smoothest run either. Like McGregor, his recent UFC record also stands at 1-3 over his last four fights, mirroring the ebbs and flows of competitive sports.
For Chandler, the prospect of fighting someone of McGregor’s stature was an opportunity to reinvigorate his career and potentially climb the ranks once more. The delays and eventual announcement of McGregor's absence have undoubtedly impacted his strategic planning and career outlook.
What Lies Ahead?
While Dana White expressed that McGregor "wants to fight," the timeline remains uncertain. As the UFC continues to navigate this ever-evolving situation, fans are left in a state of anticipation, eagerly awaiting the next move from one of MMA’s most polarizing figures.
Until then, the MMA world will continue to keep its eyes peeled for any updates. The ups and downs are part of the spectacle, and McGregor's journey remains one of the most captivating narratives in combat sports.