Conor McGregor hasn’t fought in MMA since 2016, but that drought could be coming to an end.
According to his coach John Kavanagh, McGregor—who became a two-weight UFC champion in November 2016—is in “ongoing” negotiations to return to the UFC in a lightweight title fight.
The fight, which would be between undefeated champion Khabib Nurmagomedov (26-0) and McGregor (21-3), would be a huge boon for the UFC as McGregor is still their most recognizable star despite his lack of recent MMA fights.
In their training sessions, Kavanagh said he has noticed McGregor is working out with more purpose and think it is because his focus is shifting back towards fighting in the Octagon.
“I really have seen the spark back lately,” Kavanagh said. “I think that was directed at other areas of his life for a while, building up his business world—which is completely justified. We all know the hard luck stories of fighters retiring broke. They get pats on the back and they’re forgotten.
Before he laces up the gloves against Nurmagomedov, McGregor, 29, will have to deal with the legal issues he is facing following an incident with a UFC bus in Brooklyn in April. His next court date is scheduled for July 26.
Whether you’re looking to get into shape, or just get out of a funk, The Charge has got you covered. Sign up for our new wellness newsletter today.