Misryoum reports UFC president Dana White says he is extremely confident Conor McGregor will fight this year, despite a lengthy absence.
Conor McGregor’s long wait could be nearing an end, and UFC president Dana White is projecting real momentum toward a return.
White said he’s “extremely confident” that the former two-division champion will fight, adding that UFC is “in a great place with Conor.” His comments come as speculation continues to build around when the Irish star might be back in the octagon after more than two years away from competition.
If McGregor’s timeline comes together, it would instantly reshape attention around any UFC card he joins, given his global pull and the way big-name returns can sway matchmaking and marketing across the promotion.
McGregor, 37, has not fought since 2021, when he suffered back-to-back losses to Dustin Poirier.. The second bout ended early, with the fight stopped after the opening round following an ankle injury for McGregor.. The disruption was followed by another setback in the lead-up to what was initially expected to be his return at UFC 303 in June 2024. where he withdrew because of a broken toe.
In the months since, there has been limited concrete clarity about his next Octagon appearance.. While McGregor has publicly pushed to be involved in the UFC’s Freedom 250 event at the White House this June. Misryoum notes that there has not yet been an indication that he will be added to the currently scheduled seven-fight card.
That gap between public campaign and official confirmation is a reminder of how unpredictable high-level fight scheduling can be, particularly when injuries and recovery timelines are involved.
At his peak, McGregor made history as the first UFC fighter to hold championships in two weight classes at the same time. His professional record stands at 22-6, though Misryoum highlights that three of his losses came during his last four UFC fights.
Still, White’s tone suggests optimism that the next chapter is being mapped out. He pointed to McGregor’s motivation and training, and said there are other positive developments “behind the scenes” that make him confident the fighter can be ready for a return this summer.
For fans, the key question now is not whether interest is there, but whether preparation translates into an official booking. If it does, Misryoum’s sense is the UFC can expect a major spotlight wherever McGregor lands.