Speculation abounds regarding Conor McGregor’s potential return to the UFC this year, or indeed, ever. Dana White dismissed McGregor’s proposal for a June 29 showdown against rival TUF 31 coach Michael Chandler, asserting that McGregor won’t step into the octagon before late ’24.
The charismatic Irishman, known for his showmanship, is exploring the enticing realms of Hollywood and has even hinted at a potential political career. With his considerable wealth, some, including UFC president Dana White, question whether McGregor will continue subjecting himself to the rigors of professional fighting.
This uncertainty has fueled concerns that he may never grace the UFC stage again. As the debut of his first film approaches, McGregor has been fervently promoting it on social media, offering insights into the dedication and effort he invested in the project.
McGregor is set to portray the antagonist ‘Knox’ in the upcoming remake of the action classic ‘Road House,’ alongside Jake Gyllenhaal as ‘Dalton,’ an ex-UFC fighter turned bouncer in the Florida Keys. Directed by Doug Liman, the film is slated for release on March 21, with streaming available on Amazon Prime Video.
Throughout last year, McGregor dedicated himself to filming, tackling demanding stunts such as being hurled off a speeding boat and submerged underwater.
In a recent Instagram Story, the former UFC two-division champion proudly disclosed that he performed all his stunts without the aid of a stuntman or body double. “A missile through the door and through the air. All feet off the ground with legs extended fully. I did my own stunts,” he affirmed.
Additionally, McGregor has asserted that he secured the title of the highest-paid first-time actor in history, surpassing Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s 24-year-old record for ‘The Mummy Returns.’
Speculation arises that if McGregor receives favorable reviews for his acting debut and receives further film offers, he might bid farewell to the fighting arena altogether. Despite lingering uncertainty regarding his UFC comeback, McGregor has drawn the attention of a rising star in the sport.
Featherweight champion Ilia Topuria has issued a challenge to McGregor. Though McGregor’s return to the Octagon remains uncertain, Topuria’s recent victory over Alexander Volkanovski, considered the featherweight GOAT, has propelled him toward superstardom.
With parallels to McGregor’s early career and a charismatic persona, Topuria stands as a potential successor to McGregor’s legacy. However, a matchup between the two appears improbable, as McGregor seems poised to face Chandler, and engaging with the formidable Topuria may not align with his strategic interests.
