UFC Legends Hand Conor McGregor Deadline Before Comeback Hype Dies Down

Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen discuss Conor McGregor's future if he does not show up at the UFC White House event in 2026.

UFC Legends Hand Conor McGregor Deadline Before Comeback Hype Dies Down

Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen set a deadline for Conor McGregor's return (via MMA Fighting, Bleacher Report)

🔍 Explore this post with:

ChatGPTPerplexityGrok AIGoogle AI

Conor McGregor has once again stirred interest with discussions about a potential return to mixed martial arts. While concrete details remain limited, the possibility of a comeback is drawing renewed attention across the sport. Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen have recently addressed the situation by pointing to a credibility timeline tied to McGregor’s actions and the upcoming UFC White House event.

McGregor has been vocal about targeting a return centered around the UFC White House event. He has indicated that he began a six-month training camp to restore complete conditioning and readiness. His longtime coach, John Kavanagh, has stated that McGregor is entirely focused on preparation. The camp is viewed as a structured effort to support a legitimate comeback.

The Irishman was previously expected to return against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 before withdrawing due to injury at the last minute. That setback delayed what would have been his first fight since his leg injury defeat against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. Following those developments, Sonnen questioned whether a return at the elite level remains realistic.

I do not believe that Conor McGregor makes it to the White House. Will Conor be able to manipulate the media even after he doesn’t make it. He has pretended that he is coming back since 5 years, if the White House event comes in tho, can he pretend like, ‘I didn’t come there but you will see me in November or in next January.’ Will that be the final ruse?

Chael Sonnen via Good Guy/Bad Guy podcast

Cormier has previously suggested that McGregor’s participation in the UFC White House event is essential, given a declining perception within the MMA community. He has framed the appearance as a way to reestablish credibility and relevance. Cormier hilariously challenged Sonnen’s optimism about McGregor as he pointed to the Irishman’s history of inactivity and unpredictability as a concern.

I think you (Sonnen) are one of the few people that still believe that Conor McGregor, most people don’t but you do. He’s a bad guy you know he doesn’t deserve it, but every time you believe that he has changed. He doesn’t go to the White House, Its done. Love it, hate it, love him or hate him, the White House card is going to be the biggest card we have ever had only if McGregor is on the card. The only way for that is if Conor McGregor is on it.

Daniel Cormier via Good Guy/Bad Guy podcast

The ‘Notorious One’ has also discussed personal changes made during his time away from competition. He has spoken about pursuing spirituality and attending rehab to improve focus and mental clarity. In addition to this, he was cleared in a longstanding assault case dating back to 2023. These developments have been positioned as part of a broader reset ahead of a return.

Daniel Cormier had also spoken about how McGregor’s global fame affected his discipline and priorities. He has linked that shift to a slowdown in activity and competitive momentum. As discussions continue, Conor McGregor’s future remains tied to follow-through rather than statements. His next steps will undoubtedly determine how his career is ultimately defined.

Conor McGregor’s Vatican City wedding gets questioned by Senior Vatican officials

Conor McGregor recently married his longtime partner, Dee Devlin, after more than a decade together. The couple held a private wedding ceremony in Vatican City in December 2025. The event took place at the Church of Santo Stefano degli Abissini. Attendance was limited, and the ceremony was kept out of the public spotlight.

Conor McGregor and Dee Devlin's Vatican City Wedding
Conor McGregor and Dee Devlin’s Vatican City wedding (via US Weekly)

McGregor’s personal life has previously been marked by substance abuse issues and multiple allegations involving assault and infidelity. These matters have contributed to ongoing scrutiny surrounding his public image. The Vatican City priest who officiated the wedding acknowledged awareness of McGregor’s legal history. That included a reference to the Nikita Hand civil case, which raised questions.

The developments reflect the complex intersection between McGregor’s professional success and personal challenges. His marriage represents a significant personal milestone amid continued legal and reputational discussion. Public attention remains focused on how these events influence his future. Conor McGregor’s actions moving forward are likely to shape how his career and legacy are viewed.

Also Read: