After a nearly three-year hiatus due to injury, Conor McGregor confirms his return to the Octagon at UFC 303

Conor McGregor is officially making his return to the UFC, stepping back into the octagon on June 29 at UFC 303 to face Michael Chandler. This announcement marks the end of a lengthy recovery period for McGregor following a severe leg injury sustained during a 2021 bout.

The fight is set to take place during the International Fight Week, culminating in a welterweight clash scheduled for five rounds. UFC President Dana White confirmed the matchup, which will feature two of the sport’s most prominent fighters.

McGregor, aged 35, last competed in July 2021 when he suffered a leg break in his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier. Since then, McGregor’s road to recovery has been closely followed by fans and critics alike, who have eagerly anticipated his return to fighting.

Michael Chandler, McGregor’s opponent, brings a record of 23 wins and eight losses into the fight. Chandler’s aggressive style and strong track record make him a formidable opponent for McGregor, who will need to prove he remains at the top of his game after his injury and time away from the sport.

Dana White shared insights into the timing of McGregor’s return, noting that it was crucial for McGregor to be fully prepared and free from other obligations that could distract from his training. He emphasized the importance of a fighter being fully committed to their training regimen ahead of such a significant comeback.

McGregor has also been in the public eye for other reasons, including his role in the remake of the 1989 film “Road House.” His varied activities outside the octagon have kept him in the spotlight even as he prepared for his return to UFC competition.