Conor McGregor has declared his UFC comeback is officially on — and he says it will take place at one of the most extraordinary venues in fight history: the White House.
The former two-weight world champion, 37, confirmed the blockbuster news during an appearance on Sean Hannity’s Fox News show on Wednesday night, insisting there’s no more back-and-forth behind the scenes.
“It ain’t a negotiation … McGregor will compete in The White House for America’s 250th birthday,” the Irishman told Hannity.
When pressed on whether UFC President Dana White had signed off, McGregor doubled down, saying: “Me and Dana are in constant communication. We’ve done incredible business together.
“I’m the highest generating fighter of all time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. They’ve just signed a breathtaking deal with Paramount for $7.7 billion. We’re ready to rock, baby. Bring in the big dog! The Mac G.”
A Historic Setting
The event is expected to take place in June 2026, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States. UFC President White, a close ally of U.S. President Donald Trump, is reported to have played a key role in getting the deal done.
The White House has never hosted a professional sporting event of this scale, and if McGregor’s return happens as promised, it could be one of the most-watched fights in MMA history.
It’s been over four years since McGregor last set foot inside the Octagon. His last outing came in July 2021, when he suffered a broken leg in a trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264.
A 2023 comeback bout against Michael Chandler was scheduled but fell apart when McGregor withdrew just weeks out, citing a broken pinky toe. That same matchup remains the most likely for his return, though names like Nate Diaz and Paddy Pimblett have also been floated.
McGregor says preparation is already underway — and it’s serious.
“I have eight months until The White House event, and it will be a six-month operation. I consider it a six-month operation to get ready for this bout. That’s my focus right now — I’m just eager to climb the steps to be ready for my return. There’s a lot at stake.”
He added: “I’m very excited about the opportunity. I was right there with my last one, in incredible condition [against Dustin Poirier in 2021], and well-prepared and a slight lapse in concentration led to an injury. I wish to correct that, and show what I’m about. I’m eager to get back. Let’s see what the future holds after that.”
Outside the Octagon, McGregor has remained a lightning rod for headlines. In the past year he’s been involved in a civil court case in Ireland, found liable for assault in a Dublin hotel incident and ordered to pay €248,000 in damages. He’s also faced scrutiny over a series of high-profile controversies off the clock.
Still, when it comes to business, few can rival his star power. UFC’s record-breaking $7.7 billion deal with Paramount was highlighted by McGregor himself as evidence of the sport’s growth — and his role at the centre of it.
For now, McGregor is adamant: the contract is signed, and the stage is set.
“It’s a done deal, signed, delivered. End of negotiations. McGregor will compete in the White House for America’s 250th birthday,” he said.
The only question that remains? Who’ll be standing across from him when “The Notorious” finally makes his long-awaited walk again.
Featured image credit: Fox News (Screenshot)
