It’s 2026, and UFC fans may be closer than ever to seeing Conor McGregor return to the octagon.
With the announcement of a UFC card at the White House this June, McGregor said he is aiming to make his long-awaited comeback on that event.
To reinforce his commitment to returning, ‘The Notorious’ stayed off social media for several months.
During that period, the former double champion said he went through trauma therapy, describing an experience where he was “shown his death” before reconnecting with his faith.
Mike Tyson sparked McGregor’s return
McGregor, now settled back into a full training routine, is getting ready for his walk to the White House event.
One of the key influences behind his decision to come back at 37 was Mike Tyson.
The former undisputed heavyweight champion made headlines in November 2024 when he stepped back into the ring to face Jake Paul.
Even though McGregor wasn’t exactly on board with that matchup, it was Tyson’s approach and mentality during his return that left an impression on him.
“You know what resonates with me, Mike? When you made your comeback, you were asked, ‘What would Cus D’Amato say?’ What would Cus say now that you’re back, that you’re finally returning? You said, ‘He’d say what took you so long?’ And that made me (fall to my knees),” McGregor told Tyson in a recent meeting.
“I’m never bowing out. I’ll fight until the end until we meet God, the creator. And it was light work in that ring. Light work in that ring. It was a spar for f—’s sake. Do ten more of them. Do ten more of them.”
McGregor mentions Floyd Mayweather for possible MMA bout
As he prepares for his potential return, the Irishman seems to be getting back into the swing of things.
While a fight with Michael Chandler appears to be on the cards, McGregor has also thrown out a challenge to Floyd Mayweather, suggesting that Mayweather once promised an MMA bout.
“Fun times, Dana White,” McGregor said when reposting a video of his and Floyd’s world tour press conference.
“Floyd Mayweather, when you are ready for that promised MMA bout, I am here. The White House is nice in the summer I heard. Just kidding Mike (Chandler)! Although… I could fight both the same night. Floyd MMA? Easy, 10 seconds.”
Since stepping away from professional boxing, Mayweather has stayed active by taking part in several high-profile exhibition matches.
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