Conor McGregor’s 18 Month Suspension Catches Attention of Khabib Nurmagomedov and MMA Fan Base

UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov throws shade at former rival Conor McGregor, who is suspended for 18 months due to violations.

Conor McGregor’s 18 Month Suspension Catches Attention of Khabib Nurmagomedov and MMA Fan Base

Khabib Nurmagomedov reacts to Conor McGregor's suspension (via MMA Fighting, Sportsnet)

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The mixed martial arts landscape has been shaken once again by a regulatory decision involving one of its biggest names. Conor McGregor’s career path has taken another unexpected turn following the official confirmation of a lengthy sanction under the UFC’s Anti-Doping Policy. The news of the Irishman was also interestingly reposted by arch-rival and UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov.

McGregor has accepted an 18-month suspension after committing three whereabouts failures in 2024. According to the official statement from the UFC, he failed to submit accurate location information on June 13, September 19, and September 20, preventing anti-doping officials from carrying out mandatory testing. The UFC Anti-Doping program sanctions the three missed filings as equivalent to a positive test.

Nurmagomedov and McGregor were involved in one of the most hate-filled rivalries in the UFC, which extended beyond the Octagon. While their rivalry was settled at UFC 229, where the ‘Eagle dominated the Irishman and submitted him in the fourth round, the two are still taking shots at each other to this day. Nurmagomedov reposted the news of the Notorious One’s suspension and cropped his face out.

With McGregor’s acceptance of the sanction, his 18-month period of ineligibility began retroactively, making him eligible to compete again in March 2026. Despite the suspension, McGregor has been granted approval to make his comeback during the planned UFC event at the White House, which is expected to take place in June 2026.

The Irishman has been vocal regarding his wish to fight on the White House card. He has made public announcements and also revealed that his return is signed and confirmed for the event. However, UFC CEO Dana White recently revealed that while he wants McGregor on the card, nothing has been finalized yet, and fighters will be signed as late as February 2026.

Throughout his career, Conor McGregor has remained a polarizing figure, often surrounded by controversy both inside and outside the cage. From legal disputes and public altercations to multiple delayed comebacks, the former champion’s journey has been marked by dramatic highs and turbulent lows. His 18-month sanction now adds another chapter to that complex legacy.

Fans react to Khabib Nurmagomedov reposting Conor McGregor’s 18-month suspension

News of Conor McGregor’s suspension has quickly set social media ablaze, with fans around the world debating the decision and its impact on his long-awaited return. While some supporters believe the sanction is justified given the violations, others feel it’s yet another hurdle in the fighter’s turbulent career. The announcement has reignited discussions about McGregor’s legacy, professionalism, and future.

Conor McGregor vs Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229
Conor McGregor vs Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 (via Bloody Elbow)

Khabib Nurmagomedov reposted the news on his Instagram story, instantly triggering a wave of nostalgia and debate among MMA fans. Many were quick to recall their infamous UFC 229 clash as one of the most heated and chaotic rivalries in the sport’s history. Khabib’s reaction reminded fans of the long-standing tension between the two, with some interpreting it as an unnecessary shot taken at the Irishman.

In the midst of the controversy, a section of fans has expressed optimism that the situation could change before McGregor’s planned comeback. Some believe the UFC will find a way to reduce or lift the suspension in time for the high-profile White House event, citing Conor McGregor’s star power and the promotional value he brings.

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