Conor McGregor‘s latest social media post has reignited excitement in the MMA world, raising the question that everyone thought was long answered: is ‘The Notorious’ finally on his way back? Months after focusing on Irish politics and his ambition to become the country’s next president, McGregor has finally hinted at a UFC return. So, is the former UFC double champion returning to the Octagon, and does he have a specific opponent in mind?

‘The Notorious’ took to his Instagram account and shared a video of himself sparring at the Alta Warrior Training Program in Ireland, which felt like equal parts training and subtle drama. McGregor captioned the post, “Improve your confidence, your relationships, your life. Join @trainalta today!” The message appeared to be a basic promotion for the training program. However, the timing and content choice caused many to suspect there was more going on beneath the surface, especially given McGregor’s reputation for hinting at his next move without saying it outright.

Of course, McGregor’s fight future has not been without challenges. His much-anticipated fight with Michael Chandler fell apart after a fractured toe sidelined him last summer, and Chandler has since waited in vain. But now that McGregor is back in training mode, the buzz is rising again — and this time, Paddy Pimblett may be the one dragging him back. After defeating Chandler at UFC 314, ‘The Baddy’ not only called out the Irishman but also criticized the former double champion for betting against him. “He’s meant to back me, and he never does,” Pimblett said. “So if he wants it, he’ll get muftied as well.” That combination of heat, hype, and publicity could be enough to entice McGregor back under the spotlight.

Now that McGregor has hinted at a return, the true question is, whom can he face? A fight with Paddy Pimblett seems like the perfect option, as it would be more than just a clash of styles; it would be a full-fledged cultural showdown. The charismatic Scouser has been steadily rising through the UFC ranks, and his latest victory over Chandler has further increased his prominence. Add in the developing tension between him and McGregor, and you have the makings of a blockbuster. However, it seems like fans aren’t too keen on the idea yet. But why? Well, that’s because they’re still unconvinced that the Irishman would be returning after all.

Conor McGregor fails to gain fans’ trust for massive return

For a fighter who once ruled the fight game solely via his words, Conor McGregor’s latest attempt to stir the pot feels like a rehash of a show fans have seen far too many times. His training video for the Alta Warrior Program sparked some interest. However, a lot of fans did not bite. After all, McGregor has called for Chandler, teased boxing Logan Paul, and flirted with a Bare Knuckle FC showdown against Jeremy Stephens — none of which have come to fruition. Each grandiose claim fades into the background, and every bold promise becomes just another unfulfilled headline. For some fans, the pattern is obvious—and exhausting.

That exhaustion is loud and clear in the online response. “He’ll never fight again, so let it go; he’s got way too much money to fight,” one fan commented, capturing the skepticism that now surrounds the Irishman’s every public move. Others responded with nasty jabs: “Titanium Shinbone McGregor acting return again,” one wrote mockingly, while another rejected the excitement entirely, saying, “2 min training vid now back to whiskey.” Even his most ardent fans have begun to sound more sardonic than optimistic. “Man, stop flirting with the thought of us thinking you’re ever coming back,” one user commented, apparently stung by too many fake-out attempts. Another was blunt: “You are never fighting in the Octagon ever again.”

However, not everyone has abandoned the McGregor bandwagon. There are those who still believe. “The Mac is back 🔥,” one fan exclaimed, while another pleaded, “We need one more fight from Mystic Mac, please Conor🙏🏼.” The real believers are those who refuse to let go of the myth: “Our Champ!!! Our Mac!!! 😤🦍 Be ready!!!” These reactions, while fewer in number, show McGregor’s continued influence over a part of the fandom. But it’s evident now: showy posts and mysterious captions aren’t enough. If McGregor actually wants to reclaim the crowd’s support, he must enter a cage rather than simply posting from the gym. What do you think? Will ‘The Notorious’ make his return in 2025? Let us know in the comments.