Dana White Confirms Possible Conor McGregor UFC 300 Return With USADA Update as Fans Fume Over “6 Months” Waiting Time

Irish sensation Conor McGregor has been the subject of relentless speculation, with MMA enthusiasts eagerly awaiting his return to the Octagon. The last time McGregor graced the UFC stage was two years ago when he faced Dustin Poirier at UFC 264, ending in a disappointing loss. What made matters worse was a leg injury that forced him into a surgical procedure involving the insertion of a titanium rod in his leg.

Originally, fans anticipated McGregor’s return in December after his appearance on TUF 31 against Michael Chandler. Unfortunately, those plans hit a roadblock when he was deemed ineligible due to his absence from the USADA testing pool. However, seemingly hope flickers on that horizon. UFC CEO Dana White recently confirmed McGregor’s re-entry process into the testing pool, hinting at his imminent return. But the fan responses indicate that their patience may be wearing thin.

Conor McGregor takes the necessary steps for his return

Conor McGregor seems poised to re-enter the UFC’s anti-doping program, which signifies a significant milestone towards his Octagon return. He took to Instagram to share a brief update after a rigorous training session. In his post, he revealed that he had submitted paperwork to Jeff Novitzky, the UFC’s senior vice president of athlete health and performance.

For fighters like McGregor, who withdrew from the testing pool, a mandatory six-month testing period must be completed before they are allowed to compete again. McGregor had left the program while recovering from his leg injury sustained during his bout with Dustin Poirier in 2021.

UFC CEO Dana White corroborated Conor McGregor’s efforts by confirming the submission of paperwork for re-enrollment in the USADA testing pool. During a post-fight press event for UFC Vegas 80, Dana White shared, “He has submitted the paperwork. Probably by Monday, he will be submitted. Again, don’t hold me to that but the paperwork is submitted.”

Here’s how the fans reacted to the update provided by Dana White:

Fans were quick to point out the long wait time might even extend further possibly

“See you in 2030”

McGregor’s form was also questioned.

“Just in time to resume LOSING to EVERYONE. This guy’s best is years behind him.”

Some fans even stated that they would like to see him fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 300

“He will fight ufc300 main event vs Islam!!”

Many fans also highlighted their displeasure at the update stating that the timing for his return is delayed too much.

“Who cares!!!”

“Now we have to wait 6 months… he should’ve submitted it at the start of the year.”

“Wait NOW he’s in the pool. What a joke. Running his f**kin mouth like he’s gonna fight saying he wants December but only just now enters testing what an annoying jabroni midget”

“He’s not fighting anytime soon”

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And there were even humorous remarks speculating about the testing results.

“Yeah but is his p**s going to melt the testing cup is the real question.”

These comments reflect a wide range of opinions and emotions regarding McGregor’s return to the UFC and his future in the sport. Some are critical and pessimistic, doubting his ability to perform well, while others express frustration with the delays in the testing process. On the other hand, there is also curiosity and humor mixed in, with one comment playfully questioning the drug testing outcome.

Michael Chandler believes he will face McGregor at UFC 300

Despite the setbacks, Conor McGregor remains steadfast in his desire for his first comeback fight—to take on former Bellator champion ‘Iron’ Michael Chandler. Chandler himself hinted at this potential showdown, expressing optimism during an interview on The MMA Hour.  He stated, “There’s no way that Conor comes back and doesn’t fight me. If Conor doesn’t fight me, he’s probably just not coming back and that’s out of my control.”

Everything seems to be aligning for them to headline the UFC’s third centennial event, scheduled for April 2024, precisely six months from our present standpoint.

Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon is eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide. His journey from injury to recovery and the bureaucratic hurdles he faces in rejoining the USADA testing pool only add to the intrigue. While the specific date of his return remains uncertain, one thing is clear: McGregor is determined to make his presence felt once again, with Michael Chandler potentially standing in his way. MMA enthusiasts eagerly await what could be an electrifying comeback to the Octagon.

Do you think McGregor will fight Chandler at UFC 300? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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