Conor McGregor (image via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

It looks like Conor McGregor’s much-discussed UFC return won’t take place in the first quarter of 2024.

For months now, there’s been persistent speculation and talk about when the former lightweight and featherweight champion will fight. In large part, due to the fact McGregor did not re-enter the drug testing program until recently.

The polarizing star was on hand for Saturday’s boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia. While talking to the media, McGregor reported April is being targeted for his return (quotes via MMA Fighting.com).

“April,” McGregor said. “They’re saying April now. I’m happy with April. I would’ve loved earlier, but I have to be — if I’m to be honest and realistic, and for my fans, I want to put in a good run, build myself back, and that’s it. It’s looking like April, mixed martial arts.”

“…I’ve been kept from my living for almost three years now,” McGregor said. “Understand that. I came through what I came through. I’m sitting on an injury and a loss. Imagine what that [does]. You hear what Alexander Volkanovski said — I relate. I must return to my way of living. This is my job. So it’s beyond frustrating and hopefully we can back [in April].”

The 35-year-old McGregor (22-6) hasn’t fought since July 2021 when he snapped his leg in a rubber match with Dustin Poirier.