Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has declared his intention for one final, significant run inside the Octagon. The Irish superstar revealed this week that he is preparing to compete at a special UFC event expected to be held at the White House in June 2025. Although the UFC has not officially confirmed the date or matchups, McGregor is already deep in training camp and has set his sights on a monumental challenge.
The Drive for the Historic 'Triple Crown'
In a conversation with Bloody Elbow, McGregor explained that the prospect of facing the current pound-for-pound king motivates him immensely. His ultimate goal is to achieve what he calls the 'triple crown' – winning UFC championships in three different weight classes. Having already secured the featherweight and lightweight titles, McGregor now targets the welterweight belt, currently held by Islam Makhachev.
McGregor praised Makhachev's recent performance at UFC 322, where the Dagestani fighter captured the 170-pound title by defeating Jack Della Maddalena. McGregor termed it a 'good performance' and suggested a potential fight between them would be a 'good scrap'. Despite not fighting since 2021 and with his last victory dating back nearly six years, the 'Notorious' one remains confident in his ability to make a powerful comeback.
A Legacy Rivalry Adds Fuel to the Fire
A potential bout with Islam Makhachev carries historical baggage that adds immense narrative weight. The rivalry traces back to UFC 229 in 2018, when Makhachev's coach and close friend, Khabib Nurmagomedov, defeated McGregor. The event concluded in a notorious post-fight brawl, leading to suspensions and fines.
This deep-seated history with Khabib's camp makes the idea of McGregor facing Makhachev exceptionally compelling for fans and a lucrative proposition for the UFC. Makhachev, currently ranked No. 1 on the UFC's pound-for-pound list, represents the ultimate test for McGregor's comeback aspirations.
Chandler in the Mix and Awaiting the UFC's Call
While the Makhachev fight is his dream target, McGregor's return has also been long-linked to a showdown with Michael Chandler. The two coached against each other on The Ultimate Fighter 31 and were scheduled to headline UFC 303 in June 2024. However, McGregor was forced to withdraw due to a toe injury.
McGregor stated he remains open to fighting Chandler but will ultimately let the UFC decide his opponent. 'I won’t say no to no one,' he said. 'The UFC will decide it, and I just want to come back.' He expects the promotion to initiate contract talks for the White House event by February 2025.
Asserting his readiness, McGregor confirmed he is training twice a day to stay prepared. 'The White House is on,' he proclaimed. 'We’re just waiting for full confirmation.' The stage is now set for what could be one of the most anticipated returns in combat sports history, with a legacy-defining championship opportunity hanging in the balance.
