Conor McGregor UFC 300 ‘pushed hard’ for before settling for International Fight Week date, reveals top journo

UFC plans to capitalize on Conor McGregor's star power for an event other than UFC 300.

Conor McGregor UFC 300 ‘pushed hard’ for before settling for International Fight Week date, reveals top journo

According to Ariel Helwani, Conor McGregor pushed hard for a fight at UFC 300 (via Imago)

Conor McGregor, the former UFC two-division champion, has made headlines for his widely anticipated return to the cage. According to top MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, McGregor and his camp were pushing hard for a return at UFC 300. The UFC brass, however, had other ideas, and McGregor will now make the return on June 29th against Michael Chandler, headlining International Fight Week 2024.

McGregor, who has been out of action for nearly two and a half years due to injury had voiced frustration over the absence of a firm comeback date. His impatience and desire to return to the octagon was palpable, indicating that he was ready to compete again. This is what Ariel Helwani posted about McGregor’s comeback:

International Fight Week is in fact slated for June 29 in Vegas. First time that IFW will be in June. It’s usually that first or second Saturday in July.  McGregor wanted to fight at 300. He pushed hard for it. He was ready, I’m told. But after meeting with the brass last week they settled on June 29.
Ariel Helwani via X
YouTube video

The UFC’s stance emphasizes the commercial side of the decision-making process. The UFC may have judged it unnecessary to rely on his star power for such a landmark event. Instead, it appears that the promotion carefully timed Conor McGregor‘s return to headline another event. This would allow them to capitalize on two significant pay-per-view possibilities.

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Whether it’s UFC 300 or International Fight Week, McGregor’s return is expected to be a significant draw for fans. The spectacle is expected to live up to the excitement produced by the current discussions surrounding this highly awaited return.

Conor McGregor announces his return to the Octagon on New Year’s Eve but with a twist

Conor McGregor has sparked excitement in the MMA world with his newest statement, which marks his long-awaited return to the cage. He teased his followers on Instagram on New Year’s Eve about disclosing details about his return fight on New Year’s Day. There was much speculation about his opponent, but it came as no surprise when Michael Chandler was picked. 

Conor McGregor reveals his return date to the octagon, but with a twist
Conor McGregor reveals his return date to the octagon, but with a twist (via MMA Weekly)

McGregor stated in his announcement that his return will take place on June 29, 2024, during International Fight Week in Las Vegas. The unexpected twist was the announcement that the fight would be at middleweight. This marks jumping 2 weight classes for both McGregor and Michael Chandler, as they enter into unknown territory at 185 pounds. This move adds intrigue to the fight, as fans are curious to see how McGregor would perform in the middleweight division.

McGregor’s ability to move weight classes and Chandler’s tenacity as a top contender set the setup for an exciting fight. The MMA community is looking forward to seeing “The Notorious” return to the octagon at middleweight.

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