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Conor McGregor reveals triple crown ambition ahead of UFC 329 return, not Justin Gaethje

Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images for Cantor Fitzgerald
Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images for Cantor Fitzgerald
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Conor McGregor may have dismissed Justin Gaethje’s latest callout, but the former two-division champion has a much bigger goal on his mind.

Ahead of his long-awaited return at UFC 329, McGregor revealed that he is chasing something no fighter has achieved in UFC history – a championship in a third weight class.

Rather than focusing on potential challengers, McGregor made it clear that his ambitions stretch far beyond another grudge fight, reigniting discussion over what could await him if he successfully returns to the Octagon.

The Ultimate Fighter Season 31: Team McGregor vs. Team Chandler
Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images

Conor McGregor responds to Justin Gaethje with ambitious UFC goal

Addressing Gaethje’s desire to punch him in the face, McGregor brushed aside the challenge before outlining what he believes should come next in his career.

“Yeah, join the queue. He has the lightweight belt, fair play to him. But Holloway put him face down.”

McGregor mentioned that he is not sure about going back to lightweight. He then doubled down on his long-term ambition.

“I fancy the triple crown.”

McGregor’s comments suggest he is surely looking beyond a single comeback fight. Instead, the Irishman believes a successful return could eventually put him in position to compete for UFC gold in a third division, adding another chapter to his already decorated career.

Conor McGregor’s triple crown dream could create blockbuster opportunities

A third UFC title, that too at Welterweight, may not come immediately. After spending five years away from the octagon, McGregor would likely need to prove himself against elite opposition before earning another title shot.

However, his drawing power has never been in doubt. A successful comeback would instantly place him back among the UFC’s biggest attractions and could open the door to several high-profile matchups.

One potential storyline would involve current welterweight kingpin Islam Makhachev, whose close association with former champion Khabib Nurmagomedov would naturally revive one of the UFC’s most bitter rivalries.

Whether McGregor ultimately gets the chance to chase a historic third title remains to be seen. But judging by his latest comments, becoming the UFC’s first three-division champion is firmly at the top of his agenda.