The long-awaited return of Conor McGregor to the UFC octagon has hit another significant roadblock, with the controversial star's comeback now officially delayed due to United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) regulations.
The Testing Timeline That's Keeping McGregor Sidelined
Despite recent speculation about a potential summer showdown, McGregor cannot legally compete until at least October 2024 under current anti-doping rules. The former two-division champion must complete six months of mandatory drug testing before being cleared to fight again.
"The rules are clear: six months in the testing pool, no exceptions," a USADA spokesperson confirmed, dashing hopes of an earlier return for the Irish superstar.
Chandler Fight in Limbo
Michael Chandler, who coached against McGregor on The Ultimate Fighter reality series, has been waiting patiently for what was expected to be a blockbuster main event. The proposed bout, rumoured for UFC 303 during International Fight Week, now appears impossible under the current timeline.
McGregor's situation is further complicated by his recent withdrawal from the testing program while recovering from a serious leg injury suffered during his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier in July 2021.
What's Next for The Notorious?
The earliest possible return date would see McGregor eligible to compete in October, assuming he immediately re-enters the testing pool. However, with no official announcement about his return to testing, fans may face an even longer wait to see one of combat sports' biggest draws back in action.
This development represents another chapter in McGregor's complicated relationship with anti-doping protocols, coming years after he famously tweeted "I am not retired" in response to speculation about his fighting future.
