Conor McGregor looked sharp in newly-released sparring footage ahead of his inevitable return to the Octagon.
On July 10, 2021, McGregor looked to settle the score against Dustin Poirier in a trilogy fight that headlined UFC 264. Unfortunately for ‘The Notorious,’ his fighting career was derailed for the last three years because of that night, as he suffered a severe leg injury, leading to a doctor’s stoppage before round two.
The former two-division UFC champion started his recovery process with surgery. Once he began training again, McGregor coached The Ultimate Fighter Season 31 against Michael Chandler in 2023. He attempted to return later that year before USADA wouldn’t approve a drug-testing exemption, making him ineligible until 2024.
USADA and the UFC parted ways at the beginning of the calendar year for various reasons, including the situation with McGregor. Therefore, ‘The Notorious’ was made eligible to fight again, but he took time away from training to pursue a leading role in the Road House remake movie released last month.
Fans have become frustrated with McGregor vs Chandler, as many rumored timeframes for the matchup weren’t accurate. With that said, Dana White recently claimed they would book the fight after ‘The Notorious’ fulfilled his movie obligations, and the fighters involved seem to agree they will meet inside the Octagon in the summer of this year.
Michael Chandler confirms Conor McGregor fight will take place this summer. 🚨👀
“I’ve got the official announcement, it’s happening this summer,” Chandler told TMZ Sports. “I can’t tell you the actual date, but it’s happening this summer, yes.”
“.. The official status is we… pic.twitter.com/vB0VJz8Kf4
— Parry Punch (@ParryPunchNews) March 22, 2024
Conor McGregor releases sparring footage showing him knocking down training partner
Earlier today, Conor McGregor posted several short videos on Instagram of him sparring at SBG Ireland, providing advice for those who don’t think he will fight again. In the footage, McGregor showcases his slick striking skills, leading to him knocking down one of his training partners.
Although nothing is confirmed, McGregor and Michael Chandler believe they will fight in June or July. There’s a possibility an announcement will be made later this week, as all eyes will be on the UFC for the biggest event of the year – UFC 300.
When it comes to Dana White, he has remained consistent that McGregor will fight Chandler in his return. ‘Iron’ has been waiting patiently for the opportunity, with his last Octagon appearance being a third-round submission loss against Dustin Poirier in November 2022.
Watch McGregor’s recent sparring footage below:
