Conor McGregor has officially stated that he will not be participating in the upcoming UFC event at the White House. Initially rumored to headline the fight against Michael Chandler on President Donald Trump’s property on June 14, McGregor is now anticipated to make his return to the octagon in July instead. UFC CEO Dana White is set to reveal the fight card for the White House event, but McGregor’s name is expected to be missing, with plans for his comeback fight on July 11.
Speaking to Smash Cast, McGregor shared, “I was ready for the White House matchup against Chandler. The excitement was building up, and Chandler is a formidable opponent known for his skills in the cage. While I was looking forward to that fight, the decision was made to potentially schedule my return for International Fight Week.”
McGregor also mentioned his intention to compete in the welterweight division for his next fight. Expressing his readiness and eagerness to step back into the ring, McGregor indicated that negotiations are ongoing for his next opponent and weight class. The potential replacement for McGregor at the White House event could be Jon Jones squaring off against Alex Pereira, the former middleweight and light-heavyweight world champion who recently vacated his 205-pound title.