Dana White with ‘smug smile’ announces STUNNING Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev fights after sensational UFC 300 night

Dana White drops bombshell fight announcements for UFC 302 and UFC 303.

Dana White with ‘smug smile’ announces STUNNING Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev fights after sensational UFC 300 night

Dana White announces the return of Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev (Image via: YouTube, IMAGO)

Dana White was extremely happy after the conclusion of UFC 300. Fighters on the early prelims, preliminary card, and main card showcased exceptional performances. White had earlier stated that nobody should expect anything surprising from him at the presser for UFC 300. Nonetheless, White announced blockbuster fights for upcoming PPVs featuring the return of Conor McGregor and Islam Makhachev.

After White revealed the winner of the bonuses, he received a piece of paper from the staff. Without any emotion, White announced that Dustin Poirier vs. Islam Makhachev was official for UFC 302 on June 1 in Newark, New Jersey. White also announced the co-main for the PPV – Paulo Costa vs. Sean Strickland. Interestingly, Dana White had a smug smile as he announced the main event of UFC 303.

June 29th - Conor [McGregor] vs. [Michael] Chandler. 5 rounds at 170lbs.
Dana White at the UFC 300 post-fight press conference
YouTube video

White had stated at the post-fight press conference of Power Slap 7 that no deal was in place for Conor McGregor. However, he did confirm that they were looking for McGregor to headline UFC 303. McGregor earlier announced that he would fight at UFC 303 after White flirted about it via an Instagram story. Even though the fight is at welterweight, the victor would likely be in title contention at lightweight.

FS Video

Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev had already begun their trash talk. Poirier even subtly hinted at fighting Makhachev soon via social media. It would be Poirier’s third crack at undisputed title after losing the previous two attempts to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira, respectively. Interestingly, White was not done with hyping up future events at the press conference.

Dana White won’t let Eddie Hearn be the first to have fights at Las Vegas Sphere

Las Vega Sphere is Dana White’s dream venue. The venue’s architecture makes it difficult to host live combat sports events. However, White has already announced UFC 306 for the venue, coinciding with Mexican Independence Week. Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz had expressed interest in the event. However, White clarified that he intended to stack the PPV with Mexican fighters.

Dana White and Eddie Hearn
Dana White and Eddie Hearn (via The MAC Life)

Recently, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom Boxing expressed interest in making Amanda Serrano vs. Katie Taylor II at the Sphere. They fought for the first time at Madison Square Garden, the first time women’s combat sports event headlined the iconic venue. Taylor won the fight at the time. Nonetheless, Dana White is against Eddie Hearn’s plans.

I love Eddie Hearn, it [Taylor vs. Serrano II at the Sphere] ain't happening. I consider him a friend, ain't happening. Sorry Eddie [Hearn], love you, buddy. You can go to the Sphere in October.
Dana White at the UFC 300 post-fight press conference

Dana White’s interest in the Sphere for UFC 306 came after the immense of Noche UFC in 2023. Headlined by Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko, the event garnered immense support from Mexicans and Mexican-Americans. Their crowd support was the main reason White lifted the national flag ban on UFC events. Only time will tell if the UFC CEO successfully hosts an event at The Sphere before Hearn.

In case you missed it!