McGregor confirms comeback
Conor McGregor publicly confirmed his long-rumored UFC return, saying “the rumors are true” and that he’s “here to save fighting again” after nearly five years away from the Octagon. (Sources expect his next fight to land during International Fight Week, marking his first appearance since 2021.) (mmajunkie.usatoday.com) (tmz.com) (si.com)
Nevada regulators signed off on a UFC event at T‑Mobile Arena for July 11, a date now tied to the promotion’s International Fight Week plans in Las Vegas. (mmajunkie.usatoday.com) Veteran reporter Ariel Helwani and other insiders say the UFC is targeting July 11 for McGregor’s return and that the booking would be finalized barring a major setback. (sports.yahoo.com) Media outlets and MMA beat writers have named Max Holloway and Jorge Masvidal among the primary opponents being floated for a July comeback headliner. (bloodyelbow.com) McGregor’s recent comeback timeline follows a previously scheduled bout with Michael Chandler at UFC 303 that was scrapped after McGregor withdrew with a toe injury. (sportskeeda.com) UFC president Dana White confirmed ongoing talks with McGregor but told reporters earlier this month that any deal “is not even close,” signaling negotiations are active but unfinished. (sports.yahoo.com) Promoters’ logistics are complicated by the organization’s broader event plans — Nevada filings and promotion calendars show International Fight Week running July 4–11 in Las Vegas, and insiders say placement of mega‑draw fighters like McGregor is being weighed against other major cards. (mmajunkie.usatoday.com)
