Dana White confirms Conor McGregor will not return to the UFC even in 2025

Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated return to the UFC is facing further delays, according to recent statements by UFC CEO Dana White. Fans of the Irish superstar, who last fought in 2021, may need to wait until late 2025 to see him back in the octagon. Here’s what we know about McGregor’s potential return and the factors impacting his comeback.

UFC CEO – Dana White provides update on McGregor’s timeline

During an interview on The Jim Rome Show, Dana White addressed the speculation surrounding McGregor’s return. Initially, the plan was for McGregor to fight in 2024, with a potential matchup against Michael Chandler. However, White’s latest comments shifted expectations.

“When Conor comes back, which I see being sometime the later part of next year, we’ll see where everybody’s at and what’s going on and we’ll figure out who faces Conor,” White stated. Despite the delays, he emphasized that McGregor still has the desire to fight again.

The Chandler-McGregor fight that almost was

The long-teased clash between McGregor and Chandler has been a source of excitement for UFC fans. Both fighters served as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31 in early 2023, building anticipation for a subsequent showdown. Originally set for UFC 303 in June, the bout fell through due to a broken toe that sidelined McGregor.

As Chandler prepares for his upcoming rematch against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 in New York, the prospect of facing McGregor remains uncertain. White acknowledged that Chandler and McGregor both like the matchup, calling it a “fun fight,” but noted that plans will depend on McGregor’s readiness and other factors.

Why McGregor’s return is taking so long

McGregor’s delay isn’t solely due to injuries. While his desire to return is clear, White hinted at the challenges that come with McGregor’s immense wealth and fame. “Every time I’m on here, I tell you money — money messes everything up. So we’ll see,” White admitted, highlighting the complexities that arise when managing a star of McGregor’s stature.

Aside from financial and scheduling issues, McGregor’s life outside the octagon has also played a role. He is currently involved in a civil trial in Ireland related to allegations of sexual assault from 2018, which could further complicate his return timeline.

What’s next for McGregor?

Despite the setbacks, White remains confident that McGregor will eventually make his comeback. “He and I probably talk four or five times a month. He definitely wants to come back,” White noted. While McGregor has hinted at wanting to fight twice next year and fulfill his UFC contract, a late 2025 return appears more realistic at this point.

Whether McGregor’s return will reignite the excitement among fans or be overshadowed by prolonged delays remains to be seen. For now, UFC enthusiasts will have to stay patient and await further updates from Dana White and McGregor himself.