Conor McGregor has indicated his intention to return to the UFC after a four-year hiatus. The former two-division champion has not competed in the octagon since 2021. On July 18, 2025, he announced that he had rejoined the UFC’s anti-doping program, which prepares him for a potential appearance at a historic UFC event scheduled to take place at the White House in 2026.
During an interview with The Schmo after a BKFC press conference in Florida, McGregor stated: “They’re testing me. I’m in the pool. I thought that’s what pools were for, jumping in and out—but I’m back in the pool now. So get ready and stay ready, because damage will be done. Oval Office. White House card.”
Conor McGregor is officially back in the UFC testing pool and expected to make his return at the White House event next year 🤯
“I’m in the testing pool. I’m getting ready to make my comeback. I’m going to fight on that big card, then I’m going to have another fight.” 👀
(via… pic.twitter.com/2JExo8CTDj
— Happy Punch (@HappyPunch) July 15, 2025
President Donald Trump proposed a White House event to coincide with the 250th anniversary celebrations of the United States. UFC President Dana White mentioned that discussions are progressing, and fighters are eager to participate.
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Conor McGregor’s journey back to the octagon has encountered several setbacks. In 2021, he suffered a severe leg injury that forced him to temporarily withdraw from the drug-testing pool. He re-entered in 2023 for a scheduled fight against Michael Chandler, which was ultimately cancelled due to a broken pinky toe. UFC records indicate that he underwent multiple drug tests in 2024, but none in 2025, suggesting that he opted out briefly during that time.
Conor McGregor doubles down on UFC return plan as new details emergehttps://t.co/eejSGW0zHy pic.twitter.com/thsxlk0uYi
— All Out Fighting (@AllOutFighting) July 11, 2025
The 2026 timeline enables McGregor to fulfil the six-month testing requirement. Although not officially confirmed, his announcement has sparked speculation regarding his comeback. McGregor’s return to anti-doping testing rekindles hopes for his return to the UFC. Additionally, the White House card adds an intriguing chapter to his legacy.