McGregor's Frustration with UFC Grows Amidst Comeback Delays
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has voiced his frustration over the handling of his return to the Octagon. The Irish mixed martial artist, who has not stepped inside the cage since July 2021 due to a leg injury, is eager to resume his career but feels impeded by the organization's decisions.
McGregor's anticipated comeback faced a setback when he failed to enroll in the drug-testing pool, which is a mandatory process for all fighters looking to compete under the UFC banner. After rectifying this in October, McGregor is now eligible to fight again on April 8, 2024. Despite this clearance, the exact date of his return remains uncertain, with his coach hinting at a potential summer comeback.
The fighter's relationship with the UFC appears strained, as McGregor believes that the promotion has treated him unjustly compared to other athletes. This sentiment was echoed in his recent statements where he expressed discontent with the delay in scheduling his next bout. "Give me something. It was supposed to be April, (and before) it was supposed to be December. They never treated anyone – no one has ever been treated (like this) for all the figures I've brought in this game," McGregor lamented.
"I've been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor added, highlighting the prolonged period away from active competition. His impatience is palpable as he continues to await a firm commitment from the UFC. "This is my job. It's beyond frustrating. … I just want the date. Give me the date, please. That's it. … I'm waiting, I'm waiting and I'm waiting. My patience is wearing thin," he stated.
UFC President Dana White, known for his straightforward updates on fighter statuses, currently has "got nothing on either one of those guys right now," referring to McGregor and potential opponent Michael Chandler. Chandler, meanwhile, seems to have shifted his focus to a possible matchup with Nate Diaz, leaving McGregor's immediate future within the octagon even more uncertain.
McGregor Eyes Boxing Match with Pacquiao
Amidst the uncertainty in MMA, McGregor has cast his gaze back to the boxing ring, challenging Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao to a match in Saudi Arabia. McGregor asserts that Pacquiao owes him eight million dollars stemming from a legal dispute, adding another layer to the potential bout's narrative.
McGregor's challenge to Pacquiao carries a provocative edge, questioning the boxing icon's willingness to meet him at a higher weight class. "How about me vs. Manny here in Saudi," McGregor proposed. He continued to taunt Pacquiao by suggesting that fighting at a heavier weight would be the more honorable choice: "How does that sound? Now, wouldn't you think Manny should have to come up to my weight? Considering it's his sport. Would you think that's what a man would do versus what a mouse would do?"
The Dublin native didn't stop there, urging Pacquiao to "grow a set of balls and fight me at a higher weight class." McGregor also played with the idea of blending the rules of combat sports to level the playing field. "Why not? It's his sport. If he wants me to come down to a smaller weight, I should be able to use more of my weapons. I should be able to kick. I should be able to grapple. Shouldn't that be fair?" he questioned, blurring the lines between boxing and mixed martial arts.
McGregor's Recent Fight History
Conor McGregor's presence in the fight world has been sporadic in recent years, with only four appearances since 2016. During this period, his record includes a swift victory over Donald Cerrone and two losses to Dustin Poirier, as well as a defeat at the hands of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Each of these contests has been significant, contributing to the narrative of McGregor's storied career.
As the situation unfolds, fans are left to speculate on when they might see the enigmatic fighter return to action. Whether in the UFC or a boxing ring, Conor McGregor remains one of the most compelling figures in combat sports, and his next move is eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts around the globe.