Dana White speaks out for the first time on Conor McGregor’s 18-month UFC suspension

Dana White provides update on Conor McGregor’s return

Recently rebuffing the Dubliner’s claim that he has already “signed” to compete in Washington in a stunning return to action next summer, White maintained no fights for the monumental event had been thrashed out yet.

And following last night’s spectacular Contender Series card, White echoed that sentiment, before directing talk of his comeback to a former USADA head.

“We’re not even looking at the White House card until February,” White told assembled media. “We have literally not talked about one fight on the White House card yet.

“We won’t even start until February. And then, whether he’s (Conor McGregor) available or not [for the event], talk to (Jeff) Novitzky about that.”

Conor McGregor offered surprise option for White House return

Off the back of interest in competing in Washington in a return to action next summer, McGregor was immediately tied to a rescheduled pairing with fellow veteran Michael Chandler.

And failing to meet last summer in a welterweight grudge match, one of those particular whereabouts violations stems from the day before his exit from the UFC 303 through a foot injury.

Noting his willingness to honor his agreement to fight the ex-Bellator MMA star in his comeback, a former lightweight champion has also thrown his name into the hat to fight McGregor next.