Conor McGregor confirms UFC White House contract is "done deal, signed, delivered"

Conor McGregor will very soon make his return to the octagon.

Conor McGregor has confirmed that his long-awaited UFC return will take place at the historic White House card in 2026, marking the promotion’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday.

Speaking on Fox News with Sean Hannity, McGregor declared the fight is officially set.

“It ain’t a negotiation. It’s a done deal, signed, delivered. McGregor will compete in the White House for America’s 250th birthday,” the former two-division champion said.

Dana White is cautious before making any announcements

While UFC president Dana White hasn’t formally announced McGregor’s return, he acknowledged ongoing discussions.

“He and I have been talking nonstop,” White told the Impaulsive podcast on Sept. 16. “And he’s like, ‘I’m dead serious. I want this. You know, I’m training. I’m back in the pool. I’m doing all this s–t.’ So, we’ll see. We still have a long way to go [until June].”

McGregor, 37, hasn’t competed since July 2021, when he suffered a broken leg against Dustin Poirier. Since then, he has been working toward a comeback, most recently withdrawing from a scheduled fight with Michael Chandler in 2023 due to a broken pinky toe.

Conor McGregor’s preparation and potential opponents

The Irish superstar insists he will be fully ready for his White House return.

“I have eight months until The White House event, and it will be a six-month operation,” he explained. “That’s my focus right now — I’m just eager to climb the steps to be ready for my return. There’s a lot at stake.”

Despite losing three of his last four bouts, McGregor remains the biggest draw in UFC history, holding a professional record of 22-6.

Michael Chandler is viewed as the frontrunner opponent due to their long-standing rivalry. However, a trilogy bout with Nate Diaz or a blockbuster clash with Britain’s Paddy Pimblett are also possibilities.

McGregor even demanded a massive payday, requesting $100 million to headline the White House card, though UFC has not confirmed the financial terms. For McGregor, this return is about redemption.

“I was in incredible condition for my last one, and a slight lapse led to an injury,” he said. “I wish to correct that, and show what I’m about. I’m eager to get back. Let’s see what the future holds after that.”

The UFC’s White House card is scheduled for June 2026 as part of America’s semqui­centennial (250th birthday) celebrations, making it one of the most unique events in the sport’s history.

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