Conor McGregor hasn’t fought in over four years but the former two-division UFC champion sounds more motivated than ever before to make his return at the history, first ever event at the White House in 2026.
A broken leg suffered in a trilogy with Dustin Poirier followed by a broken toe ahead of a scheduled matchup against Michael Chandler has kept McGregor out of action far longer than anyone first expected. But President Donald Trump announcing plans to host a UFC event at the White House during
his planned America 250 celebration sparked McGregor’s interest in booking another fight.
“I’m ecstatic!” McGregor told TMZ about his planned return. “The Mac is back and what better event than to grace the White House lawn for a straightener. What I do best. I’m very, very excited. Very eager. Very motivated. Bring it on, baby.”
To prove his enthusiasm about fighting again is legitimate, McGregor even re-entered the UFC’s anti-doping program, which requires athletes to undergo at least six months of testing before being allowed to compete.
UFC CEO Dana White has continuously hinted that he believes McGregor is serious about fighting on the White House card, although he’s stated publicly that he doesn’t plan on booking any matchups until at least February 2026.
That said, McGregor headlining the historic event would certainly serve as a massive draw for the UFC and he’s adamant about making his return on that date.
“I’m very happy that it’s June,” McGregor said. “It was on in July, now it’s a month earlier. Even better! Bring it to April, why not? Let’s celebrate the birthday early. I celebrate my birthday months in advance.
“That’s a definitely [I’m fighting at the White House]. For sure. That’s my event. That’s my event for sure.”
McGregor hasn’t specifically mentioned any opponents but Chandler has shown his interest in settling some unfinished business between them after they coached against each other on The Ultimate Fighter but never got the chance to fight.
Is McGregor vs. Chandler the matchup that headlines the first ever UFC White House card? Only time will tell.
