In a recent podcast appearance, social media sensation turned boxer Jake Paul offered his take on why the UFC hasn’t booked Conor McGregor’s much-anticipated return to the octagon. Paul suggests that the promotion is strategically delaying McGregor’s comeback to strengthen its position in ongoing broadcast rights negotiations.
McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has been absent from competition since July 2021 when he suffered a leg injury in his bout against Dustin Poirier. Despite the Irish superstar’s repeated calls for a fight in late 2023 and early 2024, his return has been pushed back multiple times.
Paul, speaking alongside former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, shared his theory on the situation. “Conor has two fights left on his fight deal, but the UFC is trying to renew their rights deal,” Paul explained. He went on to suggest that the promotion is using McGregor’s remaining fights as a bargaining chip in their negotiations with potential broadcast partners.
The YouTuber-turned-boxer believes that by holding off on booking McGregor’s return, the UFC can present a more attractive package to networks like ESPN. “They’re trying to renew the deal and get the most amount of money,” Paul stated. “A part of that negotiation is, ‘Hey, we have Conor McGregor for two more fights’.”
Paul’s comments shed light on the complex interplay between fighter contracts and the UFC’s business strategies. He further elaborated on the restrictive nature of UFC contracts, mentioning various clauses that can extend a fighter’s commitment to the promotion.
While Paul’s theory remains speculative, it has sparked discussions among MMA fans and pundits about the behind-the-scenes machinations of the sport’s biggest promotion. The UFC has not publicly commented on these claims.
As for McGregor, the Irish star continues to train and has even hinted at loftier ambitions beyond the octagon, including a potential run for the Irish presidency in 2025. However, fight fans around the world eagerly await official news of his return to competition.
Whether Paul’s assessment of the situation proves accurate or not, it’s clear that the business of mixed martial arts extends far beyond what happens inside the cage.
