Conor McGregor is edging closer to ending his four-year hiatus, with the Irish superstar strongly hinting his long-awaited UFC comeback will take place at a historic event. The former two-division champion is targeting a showdown with longtime rival Michael Chandler at the UFC White House card, tentatively scheduled for June 2026.
Should it be finalised, the bout would mark McGregor’s first fight since his trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021, where he suffered a leg fracture. In recent social media posts and interviews, “The Notorious” has projected a transformed, focused mindset, suggesting a serious commitment to reclaiming his status in the sport and headlining one of the most unique events in UFC history.
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) December 28, 2025
The Path to the White House: A Unique Comeback Stage
The proposed White House event represents a landmark moment for the UFC, and McGregor has positioned himself at its centre. After years of teasing returns that failed to materialise, this specific timeframe and high-profile setting have created the most concrete narrative yet for his comeback.
McGregor’s stated desire is to face Michael Chandler, the explosive former Bellator champion. The pair coached against each other on The Ultimate Fighter in 2023, building significant anticipation for a fight that was never booked. A clash at welterweight (170 lbs) is the expected format, a division where both men have recently competed. For the latest on UFC event scheduling and major fight announcements, fans can follow updates from the official UFC website.
McGregor’s Transformation: A New Mindset for a Final Run?
In the lead-up to this potential return, McGregor has presented a notably different public persona. He has spoken about a period of personal reflection, reduced social media activity, and a renewed dedication to training. This apparent shift from his often controversial off-stage antics is being framed as a necessary evolution for an athlete aiming to compete at the highest level after a long layoff and a major injury.
The physical and mental challenge cannot be understated. Returning to elite competition after such a prolonged absence is a monumental task. Analysts, such as those providing detailed fighter profiles and career analysis at Sherdog, will be closely watching his preparation, as the sport has evolved significantly since his last appearance.
The Stakes: Legacy, Money, and Unfinished Business
For Conor McGregor, the stakes transcend a simple win or loss. A successful comeback on this grand a stage would be one of the most dramatic career resurrections in mixed martial arts history, instantly rejuvenating his marketability and standing. A defeat, particularly a decisive one, could signal the effective end of his career as a top-tier contender.
For the UFC, a McGregor return remains the biggest box-office attraction in the sport’s history. A fight against the always-game Michael Chandler promises action and would drive massive pay-per-view numbers, making it the ideal centrepiece for their ambitious White House venture.
What Needs to Happen Next
While the narrative is compelling, several key steps remain. McGregor must formally re-enter the USADA testing pool and complete the required six-month period of testing before he is eligible to compete—a process he has reportedly initiated. Furthermore, the UFC must officially announce the White House event and finalise contracts with both fighters.
Until those formalities are confirmed, the fight exists in the realm of strong possibility rather than certainty. However, the confluence of McGregor’s focused messaging, a defined event, and a clear opponent has created the most credible roadmap for the Conor McGregor comeback that fans have seen in years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Conor McGregor’s next fight expected to be?
McGregor is targeting a return at the UFC White House event, which is tentatively scheduled for June 2026. This would be his first fight in nearly five years.
Who will Conor McGregor fight in his comeback?
All indications point to a bout against his The Ultimate Fighter rival, Michael Chandler. McGregor has consistently named Chandler as his desired opponent for the return.
What weight will McGregor vs. Chandler be fought at?
The fight is expected to be contested at the welterweight limit of 170 pounds, where both fighters have recently competed.
Why has McGregor’s comeback taken so long?
The delay is due to a combination of factors: recovery from a severe leg break suffered in 2021, his involvement in other business and film projects, and the requisite six-month testing period required before he can be cleared to fight.
Is the UFC White House event confirmed?
While the UFC has publicly discussed plans for a major event at the White House in 2026, the full fight card and official date have not yet been formally announced by the promotion.
