After Months of Tussle With USADA, Conor McGregor Finally Overcomes Drug Test Scare To Confirm His Return at UFC 296 Against Michael Chandler

The wait is finally over! Conor McGregor has teased his return to the Octagon after a layoff of almost two years. This time, the date is definite, and the wait is just 111 days. The rumors of his comeback have been brewing for a long time, but nothing concrete had assured the fans. The Irish fighter himself had announced he would make his way to the steel cage in December. It appears it was a reality, not a distant dream.

Notably, the 35-year-old fighter had made his desire clear to headline UFC 296, the year’s last PPV. However, his troubles with USADA proved to be the biggest hurdle, as he failed to induct himself into the agency’s testing pool. But all the obstacles have cleared out, and fans can rejoice in the return of the former UFC champion.

Conor McGregor announces his much-awaited return

‘The Notorious’ turned to his X handle and shared what appears to be a screenshot of the UFC Fight Pass. Further, the details on the image declare that he will make his comeback against Michael Chandler at UFC 296. In addition, it also suggests that their fight will headline the event.

Whether it was a lapse on the UFC’s technical team or otherwise, the disclosure of McGregor’s comeback is already out in the public. This would also assure his opponent in waiting, Michael Chandler, as the Irishman had flirted with the idea of a comeback fight against other fighters.

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Moreover, this also puts McGregor’s previously declared timeline of return straight. He had charted out a fighting plan involving Justin Gaethje and Nate Diaz. But the interesting question still looms large. Have the USADA guidelines disappeared suddenly?

Has McGregor figured out a way around the USADA?

The latest declaration also seemingly puts an end to his USADA troubles, as the announcement suggests that the Dubliner is set to receive an exemption.

While there have been instances of granting exceptions to fighters, such as Brock Lesnar, the USADA tussle never quite tipped in his favor. The fans even caught a glimpse of it when McGregor pleaded with Ari Emanuel to help ease out his USADA woes. But the tables are turning, finally. His fame and sway with the UFC top brass might add to his advantage when the dust around his USADA scuffle settles down.

What do you make of this post by Conor McGregor? Do you believe he will make his comeback at UFC 296? Let us know in the comments below.

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