
‘The Notorious’ is still eyeing the White House following some recent developments.
Conor McGregor has reiterated his intention to return to the Octagon in 2026, nearly five years on from his last appearance in July 2021. While his comeback opponent once appeared settled, recent comments from Dana White have reopened the debate around who might welcome the sport’s biggest star back.
Earlier this week, White confirmed he is no longer interested in booking McGregor against Michael Chandler, effectively closing the door on a matchup that had been building since 2023. With limited opponents who make commercial and sporting sense, attention has now turned to another high-profile name who has never shared the cage with the Irishman.
Jorge Masvidal has fuelled speculation after revealing that an announcement regarding his fighting future is close. Masvidal recently declined a boxing opportunity, suggesting he did not want to jeopardise a potential UFC return.
Speaking to MMA Junkie, the former welterweight title challenger stopped short of confirming a bout with McGregor but made it clear that something significant is in motion. Masvidal said he is training for “something very big,” adding that news would likely be revealed within days. He also referenced his high-profile political connections, a comment that has only intensified talk of a possible event linked to the White House.
Despite Masvidal’s comments, the UFC still has other proven options at its disposal. A third fight with Nate Diaz remains one of the promotion’s most reliable blockbuster matchups, capable of drawing global attention at short notice. McGregor and Diaz are tied at one win apiece, and a trilogy bout has long been viewed as an easy switch to pull if negotiations elsewhere stall.
For now, McGregor maintains that the identity of his opponent is secondary to simply stepping back into competition. With White House rumours, returning stars, and multiple big-name scenarios in play, clarity may arrive soon — but until then, the question of who faces “The Notorious” next remains one of the UFC’s biggest talking points.
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