- UFC. Dana White backs Sean O'Malley after his UFC 306 loss: He has McGregor's mentality
- UFC. Irene Aldana's brutal injury in her fight against Norma Dumont at UFC 306
As the MMA world eagerly awaits Conor McGregor's return to the octagon, speculation is swirling about who his next opponent could be. UFC President Dana White has hinted that McGregor's comeback fight is likely to happen in early 2025, igniting a wave of rumors about potential matchups. With Michael Chandler no longer in the picture, names like Nate Diaz, Jorge Masvidal, and Max Holloway are being floated as contenders for the Irish fighter's highly anticipated return.
One of the most talked-about matchups for McGregor's return is a trilogy fight with Nate Diaz. Their previous encounters at UFC 196 and UFC 202 are the stuff of legend, with Diaz handing McGregor his first UFC loss, only for McGregor to even the score in their rematch. A third fight between the two would undoubtedly draw massive attention, but Diaz's current free-agent status makes the fight uncertain. UFC would need to negotiate with Diaz to bring him back, a move that could be complicated.
Other possible contenders: Masvidal, Gaethje, and Holloway
While Diaz is a fan-favorite option, other names are also being considered. Jorge Masvidal, a veteran of the sport with his own legion of fans, has emerged as another possibility. A fight between McGregor and Masvidal would bring together two of the sport's most charismatic fighters, making it a thrilling contest both in and out of the octagon.
Max Holloway, who fought McGregor back in 2013, could also be in the mix. Holloway has risen through the ranks since then and remains one of the top fighters in the UFC. A rematch between the two could be an exciting test of how far both fighters have come.
The end of the Chandler Saga
McGregor's return has been delayed for years, primarily due to his leg injury and subsequent rehabilitation. Originally slated to fight Michael Chandler, McGregor's return has been pushed back multiple times, leading Chandler to finally move on. Chandler is now scheduled to fight Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, leaving McGregor's next opponent still uncertain.
As fans await the official announcement of McGregor's next fight, speculation continues to grow about who will stand across from "The Notorious" when he finally makes his return to the UFC.