Conor McGregor himself is the reason for the latest delay in his highly anticipated return to fighting.
Nearly four years have passed since fans last witnessed McGregor compete. His last fight was at UFC 264 in July 2021, where he suffered a broken leg and a second defeat to Dustin Poirier. Since then, McGregor has been delaying his next fight, while also managing his responsibilities as a part-owner of BKFC and, surprisingly, exploring a potential presidential candidacy in Ireland.
Following a BKFC 70 event in Florida, McGregor addressed the media about his UFC contract and the timeline for his return to the octagon.
“As I`ve said, I have two fights left on my contract. Negotiations are ongoing,” McGregor stated. “Recently, something significant happened. I visited the White House, and my country is deeply on my mind right now. There are many important issues happening in Ireland.”
“I am content with my achievements. However, I feel a strong pull towards something else right now, and that`s where my focus is heading. Greatness cannot be rushed. There was a recent proposal to fight in Alcatraz, at an event in June, I believe. But the offer wasn`t commensurate with my worth. As a fighter, knowing your value is crucial. I hold every pay-per-view and gate record. My comeback is anticipated to be the greatest and most significant in history. Right now, Ireland is my priority. It will happen eventually, I`m sure. It`s always great to be here, and there you go.”
McGregor did not specify which organization proposed the Alcatraz Island fight. Alcatraz, a former federal penitentiary that closed in 1963 and is now a San Francisco tourist attraction, is indeed an unusual fight venue proposition.
Regarding his White House visit, McGregor made headlines on March 17 when he met with former President Donald Trump. McGregor has often praised Trump, telling him during this visit that “his work ethic is inspiring.” This visit aligns with McGregor`s political aspirations, as he later announced his intention to run for President of Ireland, a largely symbolic role where the Taoiseach (Prime Minister) holds the real governmental power.
Recently, McGregor has been vocal on social media criticizing the Irish government, especially its immigration policies. While he expresses a desire to make a difference in Ireland, he also admits a degree of showmanship in his presidential ambitions.
“‘And now entering the octagon, the notorious President of Ireland, Conor McGregor,’” McGregor joked when asked about fighting while in office. “Absolutely, why not? That’s part of the appeal. Imagine being announced as the President of Ireland before a fight. Definitely, yes.”
It remains unclear whether McGregor has officially filed the paperwork for a presidential run. Despite his fame in combat sports, a political career might be complicated by his history of public controversies. He was recently found liable in a civil sexual assault case from Dublin in December 2018 and is facing another civil suit related to alleged sexual assault in Miami in 2023.
Concerning potential opponents if McGregor returns to fighting, BKFC personality Mike Perry was mentioned at the press conference. McGregor expressed interest in a fight with Perry, acknowledging their history.
“Platinum is doing something with big, soft gloves, I`m not sure what it is,” McGregor commented on Perry’s BKFC career. “What’s it called, dirty boxing? He should come back to MMA. Mike still loves the fight game, and we’ll always have respect for Mike Perry. A fight between me and Mike would be great, definitely, 100 percent.”
Wesley Dunham 
Marcus Blakely