Conor McGregor has officially announced that he will not be participating in the upcoming UFC event at the White House. Initially rumored to headline the event on June 14 against Michael Chandler, McGregor is now anticipated to make his return to the octagon in July instead. UFC CEO Dana White is set to reveal the fight card for the White House event, but McGregor’s name is expected to be absent, with his comeback fight scheduled for July 11.
Speaking to Smash Cast, McGregor expressed his disappointment at missing out on the White House event but acknowledged the possibility of fighting on International Fight Week in the future. He mentioned his respect for Chandler and the preparation he had done for that matchup over the past two years. McGregor also confirmed that he would be returning to the welterweight division for his next fight, emphasizing his readiness to compete and his hope for a favorable offer from the UFC.
The White House event may now feature Jon Jones making his return to the cage, potentially facing former middleweight and light-heavyweight champion Alex Pereira, who recently vacated his 205lb title. McGregor’s decision not to participate has opened up opportunities for other fighters to headline the event.