After a hiatus of over two years due to a tibia injury sustained in his bout against Dustin Poirier in July 2021, MMA sensation Conor McGregor is set to make his much-anticipated return in April.
Speculations have been rife regarding his comeback, including a proposed face-off against American star Michael Chandler in a UFC clash. However, a confirmed date is yet to be announced.
With 22 victories out of 28 MMA encounters, McGregor has proven himself as a formidable force in the octagon. His foray into professional boxing resulted in a loss to Floyd Mayweather Jr. in 2017.
While in Saudi Arabia for Tyson Fury vs Francis Ngannou, the Irishman hinted at discussions regarding a potential boxing match against the legendary Manny Pacquiao.
McGregor’s enthusiasm was palpable, as he stated to TNT Sports: “I’m in a great place, my body is fully healed and hopefully [I’ll be back in] April. I would have loved a December fight, I would have dialled in but I want to be honest not just to myself but also my fans.”
“April is a lovely run up for me and I’d be happy with that. I’m in a good spot, I’ve been training – I’ve been leaving also. But I’ve been training and April seems like a good time to come back.”
“It’s almost three years now that I’ve been left from my way of living. So I’m eager to get back.”
Subsequently, McGregor elaborated on his plans to compete in combat sports in Saudi Arabia, given its growing popularity in the country. He emphasizes the need for MMA to make its mark in the boxing arena, and he firmly believes he’s the one to accomplish this feat.
He said: “One of us in the MMA sphere is going to have to put a dint in the boxing run. We’re going to have to get in, switch the roles and get a win. And now it’s MMA time.”
“I feel like I’m the person that can do that. His excellency (Mohammad bin Salman) set myself and Manny Pacquiao together. There was a discussion, it was close for us to fight in Saudi Arabia about two or three years ago now.”
“I’m sure we’ll pick where we left off. MMA is what I have lined up right now so that’s where I’m at. Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom and UFC have a deal so it’s growing. I’m up for anything.”
Manny Pacquiao is one of the greatest boxers in history. He boasts an impressive record of 62 victories in 72 match, including 39 knockouts. He is also the only eight-division world champion in boxing history, with 12 major world titles to his name.