Dana White Puts Brakes on McGregor Comeback Talks: “He’s Not Fighting Anytime Soon”
For months, fight fans have been buzzing with anticipation about a potential return of the UFC’s biggest star, Conor McGregor. From cryptic social media posts to training clips and even teases about facing Michael Chandler, the comeback seemed all but confirmed. But now, UFC President Dana White is pouring cold water on those hopes—at least for the foreseeable future.
McGregor’s Return? “I Don’t Know,” Says White
Speaking recently about the situation, Dana White made it clear that the former two-division champion is not on the UFC’s immediate radar.
“He’s not fighting anytime soon,” White said bluntly. “I haven’t talked to him in a minute, but yeah, I don’t know.”
This marks a significant shift in tone from previous statements hinting at a mid-2025 comeback. With no official talks underway, it appears McGregor’s return is on indefinite hold.
🚨 Dana White on Conor McGregor:
“He’s not fighting anytime soon. I haven’t talked to him in a minute.”
🎥 @adamglyn #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/PgicOVgbyC— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 16, 2025
Where Has McGregor Been?
Since suffering a serious leg injury during his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier in July 2021, McGregor’s focus has shifted away from active competition. He’s kept busy with business ventures, a major Hollywood role in the Road House reboot alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, and a growing presence in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, where he holds a financial stake.
He was previously scheduled to face Michael Chandler in June 2024, but that bout was scrapped following a reported toe injury. Add to that a few high-profile legal battles—including one related to a 2018 incident in Dublin and another from Miami in 2023—and it’s no wonder McGregor’s fight calendar remains empty.
Social Media Activity vs. Reality
Despite setbacks, McGregor continues to share workout footage and motivational posts with his followers. While these clips fuel speculation, Dana White insists there’s no official conversation happening behind the scenes. “People always want to talk about Conor,” White said, “but as far as a fight? It’s not happening right now.”
The Legacy and the Uncertainty
There’s no question that Conor McGregor’s impact on the sport is unmatched. Dana White even acknowledged that, saying, “There’s never going to be another Conor.” Still, the UFC moves forward, and the lightweight division—once ruled by McGregor—has since evolved with new talent and fresh contenders.
Final Word
For fans still holding out hope, the message is clear: don’t expect to see McGregor back in the octagon anytime soon. Whether he’s simply taking his time or stepping away for good remains to be seen. As always with Conor, the only predictable thing is unpredictability.