After years of anticipation, looks like MMA fans might not witness Conor McGregor’s long-awaited UFC return to the octagon. Neither UFC nor BKFC, but ‘The Notorious’ Conor McGregor is reportedly negotiating an exhibition boxing match against Logan Paul in India. This marks the Notorious’ return to boxing after his August 2017 loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Whereas Paul, a YouTuber-turned-WWE wrestler, last fought Money for an exhibition match on June 6, 2021, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

The purported McGregor vs. Logan Paul bout is reportedly being orchestrated by the Ambani family of India, among the world’s wealthiest, with a net worth exceeding well more than $100 billion. Their involvement aims to spotlight combat sports in India. While the fight promises entertainment, critics question its legitimacy, labeling it a money-driven spectacle rather than true competition. Why so? Let’s find out.

Lou DiBella: Money makes the mare go

When the news of Conor McGregor’s potential return to boxing was going viral, prominent boxing promoter Lou DiBella took to X to express his stark disapproval of the entire affair. In an expletive-laden rant, DiBella bluntly stated, “Who. Gives. A. F**k. #Boxing 2025. Enough with this money grab, celebrity boxing, sh*t. Has ANYONE asked for this fight other than the Ambani family? Doesn’t matter though … with a net worth estimated at 103.7 Billion you can get virtually anyone boxing for your amusement. WHY THESE TWO, though?” 

The response was to a post by Full Violence. The caption of the post read, “Conor McGregor vs. Logan Paul in India?” asked the report while adding, “Conor McGregor in preliminary talks with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India.” Such sentiments, like the one expressed by DiBella, reflect a broader concern within the boxing community about the rise of celebrity matches that may overshadow traditional bouts and emerging talent.

Mukesh Ambani, chairman and CEO of Reliance Industries, is among the wealthiest individuals globally, with a net worth of approximately $94.6 billion, according to Bloomberg. The Ambani family’s influence spans various sectors, including energy, telecommunications, and retail. The family’s involvement in organizing this particular fight has raised questions about their intentions. Critics argue that such events prioritize financial gain and entertainment over the sport’s integrity.

Fans were utterly disappointed with the McGregor vs. Paul fight as it lacked competitive integrity. Both, the Notorious, and the Maverick operate in vastly different skill brackets and also in different weight divisions. Thus, it’s clearly visible that the match prioritizes entertainment and financial gain over genuine athletic competition, undermining the sport’s legitimacy. Fans hoping for McGregor’s UFC return or a high-stakes professional bout are now left disappointed.

Dana White could help make Conor McGregor vs. Logan Paul a reality

Even though, Conor McGregor has revealed plans for a boxing exhibition orchestrated by India’s Ambani family, UFC CEO Dana White could be the key to making it happen. Both McGregor and Paul are tied to UFC and WWE, owned by TKO Holdings, making promotional approvals feasible. A McGregor-Paul fight benefits all parties involved. McGregor will gain exposure to younger fans, whereas Logan Paul will boost his profile among fight enthusiasts.

Additionally, White’s upcoming Zuffa Boxing could host similar matches, leveraging crossover fights like this to attract attention, generate revenue, and support traditional fighters, aligning with his strategy for the new venture.

What do you think? Does the involvement of wealthy patrons like the Ambani family enhance or undermine the integrity of combat sports? How should the combat sports community balance entertainment purpose while maintaining the sport’s traditional values and competitive spirit?