Is Conor McGregor set to make UFC return? Latest update on Notorious' comeback
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Conor McGregor could soon make his MMA return.
Conor McGregor appears to have finally set the stage for his long-awaited return to the UFC. After years of setbacks, speculation, and stalled negotiations, the Irish superstar has now hinted that his comeback is not just close, it’s official.
The former two-division champion hasn’t competed since suffering a gruesome leg break against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. Since then, fans have been left waiting as multiple comeback timelines came and went.
A scheduled return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in June 2024 fell apart after McGregor broke his toe in training. At the time, he made it clear he wouldn’t step back into the Octagon until he was fully fit.
Conor McGregor drops an explosive comeback message
Momentum around McGregor’s return has been building throughout 2026, with reports suggesting that talks with the UFC had reached an advanced stage. Now, the man himself has seemingly confirmed the news in trademark fashion.
“The rumours are true,” McGregor wrote on Instagram.
“Mr. Confidence returns to save fighting again! Call your grandma! Nanny, we did it! Watch and pay me. F— you, pay me… I put your brain to sleep. See ya’s in the Casinos after… it’s an honor it’s light work it’s easy.”
McGregor doubled down on his persona, adding: “FOR LIFE AND ETERNITY, IT’S MCGREGOR! BIG MONEY MAC DADDY MCGREGOR… Watch divine magic when I fight 🙏✨”
When will Conor McGregor fight?
While no official fight date has been confirmed by the UFC or McGregor, veteran MMA journalist Ariel Helwani believes the return is nearly locked in. According to him, only something drastic would derail current plans.
“I continue to say the master of good timing… is Conor McGregor,” Helwani said. “At this point… something disastrous would have had to happen if he’s not fighting on July 11th.”
That date aligns with International Fight Week in Las Vegas, one of UFC’s biggest annual showcases. If finalized, it would mark one of the most anticipated comebacks in the sport’s history and McGregor’s first fight in the Paramount era.
Opponent still a mystery
The biggest question now isn’t whether McGregor will return, it’s who he will face. Michael Chandler was once the frontrunner, but that matchup appears off the table for now.
Nate Diaz was another name heavily linked to the comeback, but he, too, has been ruled out. As things stand, the UFC has yet to confirm an opponent.
Regardless of who stands across from him, McGregor’s return is already generating massive buzz. Love him or hate him, ‘Notorious’ remains one of the sport’s most influential figures.
When is Conor McGregor expected to return?
He is expected to fight around July 11 during International Fight Week, though it’s not officially confirmed.
Who will Conor McGregor fight next?
His opponent is currently unknown, with Michael Chandler and Nate Diaz both ruled out.
When was Conor McGregor’s last fight?
His last fight was against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021, where he suffered a leg injury.
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Blesson Daniel is a sub-editor who spends his days organizing words and managing social media, crafting bursts of creativity designed to make people smile. He occasionally dives into writing as well — whether it’s crafting articles, brainstorming ideas, or finding the perfect caption. Believing that every piece of writing offers an opportunity to tell a story, Blesson brings creativity and thoughtfulness to every project he takes on. When he’s not glued to his laptop, Blesson is likely planning his next travel adventure or losing himself in music. A passionate explorer of new places, sounds, and ideas, he believes in balancing work, play, and a good playlist in the background. Whether he’s editing, writing, or daydreaming about his next trip, Blesson is always chasing that sweet spot where creativity and curiosity collide to create something memorable.