Conor McGregor has sparked fresh speculation about his long-awaited return to the Octagon, borrowing a famous phrase from former US President Donald Trump to fuel the excitement. The Irish superstar hinted at a sensational summer showdown, potentially against Michael Chandler and hosted at an unprecedented location: the South Lawn of the White House.
From Social Media Hype to White House Plans
The former two-division champion has not fought since suffering a devastating leg break in his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. A scheduled comeback bout against ex-Bellator champion Michael Chandler for June 2024 was scrapped due to injury, leaving fans in limbo.
Interest reached a new peak when both Trump and UFC CEO Dana White floated the idea of a UFC event at the White House. McGregor was quick to throw his name into the hat. However, scepticism remained high, with many doubting the 37-year-old Dubliner's commitment to another gruelling training camp and fight.
Adding to the uncertainty, McGregor faced an 18-month suspension from anti-doping authorities for missing three tests in 2024. His ban is set to run until 20 March 2026, clearing a potential path for a summer bout.
"Make UFC Great Again"
In a characteristically bold social media move, McGregor recently shared an image of a Paramount+ billboard in New York's Times Square featuring his likeness. His caption directly echoed Trump's iconic political slogan: "It will be my great honour to 'MAKE UFC GREAT AGAIN!' Only on @paramountplus."
This post coincided with the UFC's landmark new broadcast deal with Paramount+, signalling the promotion's major plans for its biggest star. McGregor's coach, John Kavanagh, added fuel to the fire in November, confirming his fighter is back in regular training. "We're 100 per cent in," Kavanagh stated, revealing McGregor has requested a detailed training programme leading up to June.
Chandler Confident Showdown is Back On
On the other side of the potential bout, Michael Chandler's confidence is growing. The American fighter, who served as McGregor's opposing coach on The Ultimate Fighter in 2023, made a telling appearance on a New Year's Eve broadcast.
"I will say, it's gonna be a big year," Chandler teased. "There's a rumour going around. We can't confirm nor deny, but it does sound like I might be handing Conor McGregor a good ol' passionate, 'red, white and blue' butt whooping in the South Lawn of the White House sometime this summer."
McGregor, who debuted in the UFC in 2013 and rapidly became its biggest draw, seems to be eyeing one final run at glory. His storied career includes victories over legends like Jose Aldo and Eddie Alvarez, and epic wars with Nate Diaz and Khabib Nurmagomedov. Settling the score with Chandler appears to be the immediate goal, potentially in one of the most politically charged sporting venues imaginable.
