Dana White Lets Slip UFC Is Finally “Close to the Goal Line” for Conor McGregor’s 2024 Return Against Michael Chandler

Dana White made an interesting remark about Conor McGregor’s UFC return. In a recent podcast appearance, White divulged that the comeback is now on track! As per several rumors, the Irishman could potentially return at UFC 300.

McGregor has been out of competition since 2021 after his leg injury against Dustin Poirier at UFC 261. ‘The Notorious’ has since recovered from the injury. However, his UFC comeback against Michael Chandler this year was derailed due to issues with his availability for the USADA testing pool. But Dana White has some good news.

Dana White drops massive update for McGregor vs Chandler

During the podcast, the UFC CEO was asked about the potential McGregor vs. Chandler fight, to which he responded that they haven’t finalized any details. When pressed about a timeframe, White stated, ”We don’t have anything dialed in yet, if I knew even a little bit, I’d say summer if I’ve got to give you an answer, I’d say summer.”

When questioned about the progress of the negotiations being “close to the goal line,” he affirmed it was almost a done deal stating, “Yeah, yeah, 100%.“

The UFC had initially slated Conor McGregor to face Michael Chandler after TUF 31 this year. Regardless, the promotion cited McGregor’s absence from the athlete testing pool under USADA as a reason for dropping the fight for the year. According to the statement released by USADA, McGregor’s testing status was one of the primary reasons behind the split between the organization and the UFC.

In an interview before UFC 295 in New York, White stated that McGregor would have to remain in the testing program for six months before being cleared to fight, considering the issues with USADA.

Now, White has hinted at a potential summer return for McGregor. Although specific details and a confirmed time frame are yet to be established, it will be interesting to see how the Irishman’s return plays out.

Why is Conor McGregor’s team frustrated?

It is not just fans who want to see McGregor return to the octagon. The fighter’s team also wants to witness him fight soon. Conor John Kavanagh, in a recent discussion on ‘The MMA Hour’, spoke about how UFC 300 in April 2024 was doubtful for his fighter.

The coach revealed McGregor and his team were “very frustrated” by this uncertainty. But with Dana White’s new revelations, it seems like McGregor will return soon. But will he return at UFC 300? That’s up for a debate.

Read More: After Dana White’s Physical Transformation, UFC CEO Jubilant as Kyle Forgeard From Nelk Boys Follows Suit

Additionally, Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler have been going back and forth for a while. Fans have been waiting to see them clash. Delaying the bout might only dampen this enthusiasm. While there are no official announcements or details about the Irishman’s return, he is officially back in USADA’s testing pool. He has also submitted his first samples.

Do you think Conor McGregor will be able to regain his momentum when he returns against Michael Chandler? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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