Pimblett Wants McGregor Clash

As Conor McGregor’s 18-month anti-doping suspension officially concludes, Paddy Pimblett addressed the possibility of a showdown with him. 

Pimblett, who saw his seven-fight UFC winning streak snapped by Justin Gaethje in an interim title fight on January 24, 2026, confirmed he is eager to return to action. While acknowledging the matchup might not make tactical sense given their current rankings, he admitted he would not turn it down. 

Despite missing out on a slot for the historic UFC Freedom 250 (the White House card) on June 14—coinciding with President Trump’s 80th birthday—the Irishman’s comeback remains the most anticipated storyline of the year. Rumors are intensifying that the UFC is saving McGregor’s return to headline International Fight Week in late June.

Pimblett Reacts

Following his victory over Pimblett, Justin Gaethje is set to face the lightweight champion against Ilia Topuria at the White House. Pimblett’s performance against Gaethje earned him widespread respect despite the loss, with many noting his durability after surviving several knockdowns. He has since been linked to various opponents for a summer return, though a date with McGregor would be the one he wants. 

“Yeah, of course [I’d fight Conor McGregor]. If Conor wanted to fight me, I would fight him all day long. Everyone knows how good Conor is and how he changed the sport, but the sport moves on. It’s a different trajectory now. It’s a completely different sport. But if, as I said, he wanted to fight me, I’m not going to say no, am I? He’s the biggest star the sport has ever seen. He made the sport what it is, so if he ever wanted to fight me, I’d fight him in a heartbeat. Anyone who says otherwise is an idiot,” Pimblett said