Conor McGregor has once again stirred the MMA world with a short but powerful statement. Following reports that the UFC is preparing a historic event at the White House in 2026, the former two-division champion teased his return with a two-word message: “McGregor’s return.”
The Irish superstar has not stepped into the Octagon since July 11, 2021, when he faced Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. That fight ended in a doctor’s stoppage after McGregor suffered a broken leg in the opening round. It marked his second straight loss to Poirier, following their earlier meeting at UFC 257. Before that, McGregor had scored a blistering 40-second TKO win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246.
McGregor’s career has always mixed dramatic highs with equally dramatic setbacks. His defeat to Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 was one of the biggest events in MMA history, but his knockout win over Cerrone reminded fans of the explosive striker that first stormed through the UFC ranks. In total, “The Notorious” boasts 22 professional wins, with 19 coming by knockout.
Plans for the White House event were recently confirmed by UFC President Dana White, who revealed that the Octagon will be set up on the South Lawn, with weigh-ins scheduled for the Lincoln Memorial. It is being billed as a once-in-a-lifetime Independence Day spectacle, though logistical changes have shifted the targeted date from July 4, 2026, to late June.
For McGregor, the timing might be perfect. His much-hyped fight with Michael Chandler at UFC 303 was canceled due to a toe injury, and questions about his next move have dominated headlines. Now, his cryptic “McGregor’s return” post has fans convinced that the Irishman is eyeing a comeback on the grandest stage imaginable.
MCGREGOR’S RETURN! https://t.co/nbF9ItG1Md
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) September 5, 2025
FAQs About Conor McGregor’s UFC Career and Return
When did Conor McGregor last fight?
McGregor’s last fight took place on July 11, 2021, at UFC 264 against Dustin Poirier. The bout ended in a doctor’s stoppage after McGregor broke his leg at the end of round one.
What is Conor McGregor’s UFC record?
Conor McGregor holds a professional MMA record of 22 wins and 6 losses. Highlights include his KO win over Donald Cerrone at UFC 246 and his featherweight title victory before moving up in weight.
Who did Conor McGregor beat at UFC 246?
At UFC 246, McGregor defeated Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone in just 40 seconds via TKO, showcasing his trademark striking power in a quick comeback fight.
Did Conor McGregor fight Khabib Nurmagomedov?
Yes. McGregor fought Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in 2018. Khabib won via fourth-round submission in one of the UFC’s most-watched and controversial events.
Why was Conor McGregor’s fight at UFC 303 canceled?
McGregor was scheduled to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303, but the bout was canceled after McGregor broke his toe during training camp. This delayed his long-awaited return to the Octagon.
Is Conor McGregor returning for the UFC White House event?
While not officially confirmed, McGregor has strongly hinted at a comeback tied to the UFC White House event by posting “McGregor’s return” on social media. The event is planned for summer 2026.
