Conor McGregor’s much-anticipated return to the UFC will not happen in 2024, according to UFC President Dana White. Speaking after the season premiere of “Dana White’s Contender Series” on Tuesday, White confirmed that a fight with Michael Chandler, a matchup fans have eagerly awaited, is off the table for this year.

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“We talked, and he wants to fight,” White stated regarding McGregor’s return. “We’ll figure it out. Not this year. He won’t fight this year.”

McGregor quickly responded on social media, expressing his frustration with White’s announcement. On X, McGregor challenged White’s timeline, insisting, “Ah Dana, December is the date. Bring the calendar year home with a winning event! Come on now, what’s this? I am off to altitude next month to prepare. December! Tell Dana and UFC we want December! We deserve December!”

McGregor has been sidelined since suffering a leg injury against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. Although a comeback was planned for UFC 303 on June 29 against Chandler, McGregor’s broken toe forced him to withdraw just 16 days before the fight.

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Despite McGregor’s hopes to return before the end of 2024, White has dismissed the possibility of an October fight, and UFC 308, featuring a featherweight title defense by Ilia Topuria, is set for October 26. UFC 309 in November will likely be headlined by heavyweight champion Jon Jones versus Stipe Miocic, with UFC 310 in Las Vegas being the only remaining option for McGregor this year.

Michael Chandler, initially hopeful about the fight, has grown pessimistic, especially after McGregor was seen drinking at various events. Chandler acknowledged on X, “Never mind guys, I think it’s time I finally admit the fight is off.”

White did not link McGregor’s recent activities to his decision but acknowledged that the wait for McGregor’s return may be longer than expected.

Source : TSN