Conor McGregor, the often polarizing figure in the UFC, will not be stepping foot in the Octagon in 2024. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed McGregor's continued absence from competition during a post-fight press conference for Dana White's Contender Series. This decision quashes any hopes fans had of seeing the Irish fighter return to action this year.
McGregor's Injury Woes
The anticipation for McGregor's return had been high, especially with a slated bout against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in late June. Unfortunately, those plans went awry when McGregor suffered a broken pinky toe during a training session. The injury forced him to pull out of the UFC 303 fight, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating about his next steps.
Despite concerted efforts to reschedule the fight, logistical issues and McGregor's recovery timeline never aligned. Speculations had been rife that McGregor might make a surprising return by December, but Dana White has now put those rumors to rest, stating unequivocally, "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."
The Ultimate Fighter Rivalry
Adding another layer to the suspense was McGregor's role alongside Michael Chandler as opposing coaches on season 31 of "The Ultimate Fighter." The season began filming in February 2023 and served to build up excitement for what many hoped would be an explosive showdown. However, the much-anticipated clash between the two never materialized, leaving fans disappointed once more.
A Legacy in Question
McGregor's career since his peak in November 2016 has been tumultuous, to say the least. With a UFC record standing at just 1-3 since then, his only victory came against Donald Cerrone. This record contrasts sharply with his earlier career, which saw him rapidly rise to stardom and become the first fighter in UFC history to hold titles in two weight classes simultaneously.
Outside the Octagon, McGregor's life has been equally eventful. He has faced various legal troubles and has teased retirement multiple times, contributing to the uncertainty surrounding his career. These episodes have only added drama but have also led some to question his commitment to the sport.
Michael Chandler's Parallel Struggles
Michael Chandler, McGregor's would-be opponent, has also faced his set of challenges. Chandler last fought in November 2022, losing by submission to Dustin Poirier. His recent UFC record mirrors McGregor's, standing at 1-3 over his last four fights. Like McGregor, Chandler has experienced a mix of thrilling highs and disappointing lows, making their potential matchup even more compelling.
For now, the buildup to the McGregor-Chandler fight will remain an unfulfilled promise, a narrative fraught with delays and uncertainties. Both fighters undoubtedly have much to prove, and fans can only hope that circumstances will eventually allow for this contest to take place.
While McGregor's absence extends through 2024, the UFC continues to march on, with new stars rising and captivating storylines unfolding. Yet, the shadow of McGregor's larger-than-life persona continues to loom, leaving fans eagerly anticipating his eventual return.