Conor McGregor is gearing up for a highly anticipated return, and the latest developments could redefine the landscape in both boxing and MMA. The former two-division UFC champion hasn’t stepped into the cage since his leg injury during the third Poirier clash in July 2021, and since then he’s flirted with opportunities in boxing and MMA without finalizing a comeback.
Rumors persist that McGregor plans to relaunch his career at the UFC White House event in June 2026. While Michael Chandler is currently the leading candidate to collide with him on that card, nothing is set in stone, and the Irish superstar continues to entertain other offer schemes.
In the boxing realm, McGregor has not fought since his 2017 debut against Floyd Mayweather, a bout that ended with a knockout loss. Nevertheless, he continues to champion himself as the best boxer in MMA, a claim he once playfully echoed during a face-off with UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan in 2023, joking, “I’m the best boxer in the UFC.” That moment sparked plenty of debate about where his boxing prowess genuinely stands among MMA-caliber punchers.
A notable development now comes from Umar Kremlev, president of the International Boxing Association (IBA), who floated the idea of McGregor headlining a marquee main event in 2026. In a social video showing a tense stare-down with Yan, Kremlev wrote, “Let’s make the best main event of 2026. The IBA is ready to organize this fight—we just need your agreement.” He tagged Petr Yan and McGregor’s team in the post, signaling genuine interest in a potential clash under boxing’s umbrella.
Meanwhile, McGregor has also teased a UFC title path, signaling an ambition to chase the 170-pound belt and the so-called triple crown. In a candid interview with Bloody Elbow’s Donagh Corby, he stated, “I’m motivated. I’m self-motivated, and I definitely want a crack at that belt. I want that 170lb strap to go for the triple crown.” He also praised Islam Makhachev’s recent performance, describing it as a good scrap and noting the intriguing southpaw-versus-southpaw dynamic if they eventually meet.
As the 37-year-old icon explores these varied routes, fans and analysts are left weighing the best path forward—box office spectacle in boxing, a high-stakes UFC title bid, or a carefully choreographed comeback that blends both worlds. The decision, and the timing, will likely shape McGregor’s trajectory for years to come. Which avenue do you think McGregor should pursue first, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
