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“He’s got that aura, that magic around him, and that’s what makes him a superstar.” — Dana White, UFC President, on Conor McGregor’s star power.

UFC President Dana White recently dropped a bombshell, declaring that Conor McGregor’s much-hyped return to the octagon won’t be happening in 2024. This shocking announcement comes as McGregor continues to claw his way back from the brutal fractures to his left tibia and fibula that he suffered during a clash with Dustin Poirier back in July 2021.

But the ever-defiant McGregor wasn’t going to take this news lying down. In true McGregor fashion, he fired back on social media, pushing for a fight date in December—only to mysteriously delete the post shortly afterward, leaving fans and pundits alike scratching their heads.

The notorious Irishman was originally slated to make a thunderous comeback against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29. But fate had other plans. A freak training accident left McGregor with a broken toe, forcing him to bow out of the event and leaving fans disappointed once again. This bout was supposed to be the crescendo of the rivalry that brewed during their time as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter, adding more fuel to the fire of anticipation.

“He’s changed the game. Conor McGregor is the biggest star in the history of mixed martial arts.” — Joe Rogan, UFC commentator, on McGregor’s influence in the sport.

McGregor seemed eager to get back in the ring, taking to social media on July 2 to express his excitement about locking in a new fight date. But alas, the UFC gods have decided that 2025 might be the year of McGregor’s return, leaving the combat sports world in suspense.

Meanwhile, Michael Chandler, ever the optimist, had his eyes set on a potential showdown with McGregor at the Sphere in Las Vegas during UFC 306 in September. But with the future uncertain, Chandler finds himself in limbo, pondering his next move. Speaking with Lucky Block, Chandler revealed that while he holds out hope for the McGregor fight, he’s also weighing other possibilities, determined to keep his career on track regardless of whether the bout materializes.

Chandler reflected on the history he and McGregor have shared, noting that while their Ultimate Fighter showdown and the hype surrounding their potential fight are significant, his legacy isn’t solely tethered to this one matchup. He remains focused on making the smartest moves for his career and family as the waiting game drags on.

“He’s a precision striker with the mind of a tactician. Every movement has a purpose.” — John Kavanagh, Conor McGregor’s coach, on his fighting abilities.

For McGregor, this latest twist marks yet another chapter in a tumultuous career that has seen its share of epic highs and frustrating delays. With only three fights under his belt in the last six years, McGregor’s once-dominant presence in the UFC has been sporadic at best. However, his legend remains firmly intact, bolstered by his historic achievement as the first UFC fighter to simultaneously hold titles in two weight classes—featherweight and lightweight. Fans still talk about his jaw-dropping 13-second knockout of José Aldo at UFC 194 in December 2015 as one of the sport’s most unforgettable moments.

Now, with a career record of 22-6, including a staggering 19 knockouts, McGregor stands at a crossroads, his eagerly anticipated comeback seemingly postponed until 2025. The question on everyone’s mind: Will the Notorious One rise again, or is this the beginning of the end for one of the most enigmatic figures in combat sports history? The world waits with bated breath.

Quotes

“What he’s done for the sport of mixed martial arts is unparalleled. He brought a whole new audience to the UFC.” — Ariel Helwani, MMA journalist, on McGregor’s legacy in the sport.

Quotes by Conor McGregor:

On Confidence:

“I’m not here to take part. I’m here to take over.” — Conor McGregor, famously declaring his ambition during his rise in the UFC.

On Hard Work:

“There’s no talent here, this is hard work. This is an obsession.” — Conor McGregor, emphasizing his belief in hard work over innate talent.

On Success:

“We’re not just here to take part—we’re here to take over.” — Conor McGregor, during his victory speech after defeating Diego Brandao in 2014.

On Self-Belief:

“Doubt is only removed by action. If you’re not working, then that’s where doubt comes in.” — Conor McGregor, on the importance of action in overcoming doubt.

On His Legacy:

“I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was.” — Conor McGregor, echoing Muhammad Ali in his confidence about his place in the sport.

Major Points:

  • UFC President Dana White announced that Conor McGregor will not be returning to the octagon in 2024 due to ongoing recovery from severe leg injuries sustained in 2021.
  • McGregor initially pushed for a December fight date but later deleted his social media post, adding to the uncertainty surrounding his comeback.
  • McGregor was originally set to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in June, but a broken toe during training forced him to withdraw from the event.
  • Michael Chandler remains hopeful for a future fight with McGregor but is considering other options as the possibility of a 2025 return looms.
  • McGregor’s career has been marked by historic achievements, including holding titles in two weight classes simultaneously, but his comeback now appears delayed until at least 2025, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his next move.

Charles William III – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News