Key Highlights
- Conor McGregor expresses desire for a title shot against Islam Makhachev in the 170-pound division.
- McGregor targets a return to competition at the upcoming UFC White House event in June 2025.
- The former two-division champion sees a potential matchup with Makhachev as his path towards achieving a triple crown.
- Makhachev, currently ranked No. 1 on MMA Fighting’s Pound-for-Pound Rankings, awaits his next challenger.
Conor McGregor’s Return and Ambitions in UFC
Former UFC two-division champion Conor McGregor has set his sights on a significant comeback at the upcoming UFC White House event scheduled for June 2025. The 37-year-old, who hasn’t competed since 2021, is eager to return to the octagon and potentially challenge for the 170-pound title held by Islam Makhachev.
McGregor’s Motivation and Confidence
“I’m motivated,” McGregor told Bloody Elbow when asked about his interest in facing Makhachev. “I’m self-motivated, and I for sure want a crack at that 170-pound belt to go for the triple crown.” McGregor’s desire to achieve this goal is clear, as he believes it represents a significant milestone in his career.
Possible Matchup Against Makhachev
McGregor has been impressed by Makhachev’s recent performance, particularly his successful transition from lightweight to welterweight. “It would be a good fight, a good scrap,” McGregor said of a potential matchup. “Southpaw, southpaw. It was a good performance out of him and fair play to him, he had the courage to do it, to go up.” This statement reflects McGregor’s respect for Makhachev’s abilities and his willingness to face him in a title fight.
History Between McGregor and Makhachev
The potential matchup is not without history. McGregor has a longstanding feud with Khabib Nurmagomedov, who was Makhachev’s mentor before his passing. This past conflict culminated in a post-fight brawl that saw both fighters and their teammates receive fines and suspensions. Despite this tension, McGregor sees an opportunity to face Makhachev for the title.
McGregor’s Training and Future Plans
In preparation for his return, McGregor is working out diligently in the gym, training twice a day. He remains focused on the UFC White House event but is open to other potential opponents as well. “I won’t say no to no one,” McGregor said. “The UFC will decide it and I don’t care, I just want to come back.” His eagerness to compete underscores his determination to make a significant impact in his return.
UFC White House Event
The UFC has not yet reached the matchmaking stage for the White House event, but McGregor is confident that he will be part of it. “The White House is on,” he said. “We’re just waiting for a full confirmation. I assume around February, they’ll come reaching out and we’ll go into the contract negotiations and matchmaking orders, that’s what they say.” This statement highlights McGregor’s anticipation and willingness to engage in the process.
Conor McGregor’s return to the UFC is set against a backdrop of ambition and history. As he prepares for his potential title shot against Islam Makhachev, fans eagerly await the possibility of witnessing another chapter in one of MMA’s most storied careers.
