Will McGregor return later this year? The Irishman and UFC boss are clear despite failing to meet a condition

Uncertainty and many question marks. Will Conor McGregor step into the cage in the UFC later this year? It seemed not, as he failed to meet a crucial stipulation. However, the head of the organization Dana White and the star fighter himself see it differently.

The second half of June was a very exciting time within the world combat sports scene. Fans are looking forward to the spectacular comeback promised by the star Conor McGregor. The famous fighter was beckoning the biggest comeback in history.

He was set to face Michael Chandler in the cage at the end of 2023. But there was one crucial condition to be met. Six months before the fight, he had to register with the USADA anti-doping program.

In order to fight later this year, he had to submit samples for testing by June 16. But he missed the deadline, and so it essentially stopped counting on McGregor actually entering the cage at the end of the year.

But during this weekend’s UFC 290 tournament, the Irish fighter posted one word on social media with clear meaning. “December, ” referring to his scheduled fight with Chandler.

Prior to the tournament and at the post-event press conference, organization boss Dana White faced questions on the subject. “I believe there’s a chance we’ll see that fight later this year. One hundred percent,” he told TSN.

White is aware, however, that McGregor is not in the anti-doping program. “We’ll see what happens. USADA is talking about six months, we’re not. Who knows. Who cares what USADA says?” he added.

At the moment, according to the UFC boss, there is no point in talking about the Irish star’s return. He is only focusing on the present. He also outlines that in order for McGregor to fight Chandler this year, a lot of formalities need to be sorted out.

Source: UFC, BJPenn.com, Tapology