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Conor McGregor downplays ‘summer’ return amid UFC ‘negotiations’

Is Conor McGregor fighting at UFC White House? The former champ reveals his latest timeline amid ongoing negotiations for a “Notorious” 2026 return to MMA.

SportsBy Marcus ThompsonMarch 3, 20261 min read

Last updated: March 18, 2026, 7:23 AM

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Conor McGregor downplays ‘summer’ return amid UFC ‘negotiations’

Like Motley Crue one said: It’s the same old, same old situation.

Former UFC two-division champion Conor McGregor, who previously claimed his White House fight was signed, sealed, and delivered, now insists he’s still in negotiations with the promotion and is hoping to make his Octagon return this summer.

Then again we also heard it was Dec. 2023 and then early 2025 and a dozen other fake dates.

“I am in negotiations with the Ultimate Fighting Championship about the bout, either the White House or thereabouts,” McGregor told DrinkLitt outside his Black Forge restaurant in Ireland. “Sometime in the summer, McGregor will return.”

Hopefully he doesn’t break another toe between now and then.

There’s also the chance that McGregor, now 37, is playing coy and unable to make any kind of announcement because of his drug test suspension, which has “Notorious” off the table until the end of this month. Regardless, recent reports suggest McGregor will not be a part of the upcoming White House card in June.

International Fight Week, however, remains an option — assuming the newly-married McGregor can stay out of trouble.

MT
Marcus Thompson

Sports Correspondent

Marcus Thompson is a sports correspondent covering the NFL, NBA, and major American sporting events. A former college athlete and sports journalism veteran, he has covered five Super Bowls and multiple NBA Finals. His player profiles and game analysis are known for their depth and insight.

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