Conor McGregor’s potential return to the UFC has been a topic of intense debate, and Chael Sonnen has shared his insights on why it may not happen anytime soon.
Sonnen, known for his candid takes on the sport, explained in a recent Instagram video that McGregor’s future in the UFC could be complicated by both his legal troubles and the business side of things.
Chael Sonnen Explains Why Conor McGregor’s UFC Return Might Be a Long Shot
Sonnen explained that McGregor’s potential comeback is clouded by several issues, including legal problems and the UFC’s business strategy. He believes UFC president Dana White will only book a fight if it makes sense for the organization and creates a meaningful outcome.
McGregor hasn’t fought in the octagon since 2021, when he suffered a serious leg injury during his fight with Dustin Poirier. His fans were hoping to see him face Michael Chandler earlier this year, but McGregor had to pull out due to injury.
On top of this, McGregor is facing ongoing legal troubles. Recently, he was found liable in a civil court case in Ireland, which only adds to the uncertainty surrounding his career.
“Conor McGregor fights again or Conor doesn’t fight again, and you probably go 70:30 or 60:40. Who are you going to put him with? Michael Chandler was a perfect opponent,” Sonnen said. “Chandler still works. Let’s say you remove Chandler—who do you put him with? [Jorge] Masvidal versus Conor? You’d really like to see that, I get it, but you’re not going to. Nate Diaz versus Conor? You’d have a real box office there.”
Dana White has kept quiet on McGregor’s situation, not commenting on the legal issues but mentioning that McGregor needs to address his personal matters first before returning to competition.
“If I had a comment [about Conor McGregor’s legal case] I would have put it out already. He hasn’t been fighting here in how long? If he does fight, it will be sometime next year.” Said Dana White at post fight persser of UFC 310.
Sonnen pointed out that Conor McGregor’s popularity might not be enough for the UFC to move forward with a fight unless it fits into their business goals. He believes that without a clear reason to book the fight, the promotion may hold off on bringing McGregor back anytime soon.
“What do we think Dana is going to do? Dana doesn’t play checkers; he plays chess. He’s several steps ahead, and if your match doesn’t have meaning for the future—a potential to take you somewhere else—White will not book that match.” Sonnen noted, hinting that the UFC is unlikely to take risks on a fighter whose future seems so unpredictable.
For now, the possibility of seeing McGregor back in action remains in limbo, leaving fans to wonder if ‘The Notorious’ has already fought his last battle in the UFC