Despite speculation about Conor McGregor‘s return to UFC action this year, the fighter won’t return to the octagon until 2024.
This was confirmed by Audie Attar, the representative of one of the UFC’s biggest stars, as they don’t want to force a comeback and want to do everything the right way.
McGregor‘s return is almost a done deal, although it has not been confirmed when or against whom, but it has not happened because the fighter must be on the USADA lists for at least six months before returning to action.
Right now, the Irishman is not yet registered. Thus, his return cannot happen this year.
“One of the things everybody forgets is that Conor was one of the most tested athletes when he was competing, and we’re going about things the right way,” Attar told MMA Junkie.
“We’re in active discussions with the UFC, we’ve spoken to USADA, and we’re going to do things the right way.”
McGregor is looking for a return in 2024.
Attar made it clear that the fighter has always cooperated with anti-doping measures and that many things that are written on the internet are false, but he is very clear that McGregor will be back, although it will be next year.
“That’s all I’m going to say about that,” Attar said.
“The thing about Conor McGregor is, people will speculate and stories run wild that are nine times out of 10 very inaccurate and false, so that’s all I’ll say about that.
“But certainly, he’s looking for a comeback in 2024.”
“He always could look elsewhere. Everybody’s always doubting him in different ways and criticizing him, and being critical.
“But ultimately, they’ll see when he steps into that octagon, and ultimately I think they can eat their words then.
“Until then, we’re just going to do our thing, and go about it the right way. He’s preparing at the end of the day, and that’s the most important thing.
“Chandler makes sense, but so do others. But, Chandler is who he has his sights set on. We did that show knowing that that matchup would be next.”