Conor McGregor (image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

For months now, many have been questioning whether Conor McGregor will compete this year, and now the star says it’s unlikely.

Due to McGregor’s status with USADA, whereby, a fighter is required to be tested for six months after re-entering the program, he would require an exemption to compete before the year is up. Although the UFC has not definitively stated it will not grant an exemption, there’s been no indication yet that the promotion will.

Recently, McGregor said he is going to fight Michael Chandler in December. But, no announcement followed. Now, MMA Junkie is reporting that via a series of audio notes on X (formerly known as Twitter), McGregor said he likely won’t fight this year.

“They’re not going to let me fight in December, ladies and gentlemen. You’ve seen Chris Weidman (at UFC 292). Imagine what that injury is. I feel like I’m being kept from my livelihood, and I’ve been feeling this for years. I’m not going to air grievances. I’m going to buoy down and soldier on. I’m ready. I wanted an announcement for (UFC 296 on) Dec. 16. I’ve given everything. So, it’s not going to happen. It doesn’t look like it’s going to happen.”

The 35-year-old also reportedly called on Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel and the Nevada Athletic Commission to help clear a path to a December bout. McGregor (22-6) hasn’t fought since July, 2021, when he broke his leg in his rubber match with Dustin Poirier.