Conor McGregor’s latest setback has fans speculating about his return to the Octagon. The loss of the UFC 303 card due to a wrist injury was controversial, especially considering Alex Pereira fought through a similar injury to defeat Jamahal Hill, but lightweight contender Benel Dariush offers a different perspective he himself has suffered such an injury.
Bennell Dariush’s Struggles
Currently dealing with his own injury issues, Dariush understands the gravity of McGregor’s situation. Speaking candidly in the interview, he revealed his experience with a crippling wrist injury. “I was injured like Connor. The only difference is where my ankle broke and where the foot connected… the foot was like a pinky and a toe and then one more toe broke in just a push kick,” he told ‘Submission Radio’.
Understanding the injury, Darius focused on how McGregor got his injury, possibly during the bout. “I’m sure Conor was in the same situation. He threw a push kick and hit an elbow, and if I had to guess, it was just a little bit,” Darius explained. The pain, and the coughing that followed, was so intense that Dariush could barely move. “The pain was in my elbow. For example, if people said to me, ‘Hey, cut your fingers’, I would cut my fingers. The problem was that all the inflammation went down my legs and I couldn’t really walk. So if I can’t walk, I can’t fight, I can’t do weights, I can’t do anything,” he described.
Recovery Prospects
While Dariusch is focused on recovery and aiming to fight before the end of the year, questions remain about McGregor’s future. However, there is hope among some UFC commentators for McGregor’s return.
John Anik’s Expectations UFC commentator John Anik expressed confidence that McGregor will return. Despite the doubts of the likes of Chael Sonnen, Anik believes fans will see McGregor fight twice in 2024. “I fully expect him to compete in 2024 and come back at a high level. Fight twice in eight months. I know that sounds ridiculous and super ambitious to some people, but I just know the mixed martial arts athlete is there, and I still hope he comes back and makes a bigger impact than anyone expects him to.” Anik told ‘MMA Junkie’.
McGregor’s Training Route
Speculation has intensified over McGregor’s return, especially with him being seen skipping parties to focus on training. This change in behavior may indicate a strong recovery commitment. Whether this leads to a successful relapse remains to be seen.
Road Ahead
Fans and analysts will be watching McGregor’s next move closely. The Irishman has been out of the game for three years, with his latest injury adding to the uncertainty. However, the UFC community remains optimistic. The possibility of McGregor fighting twice in 2024 could mark a major comeback, perhaps redefining his career.
McGregor’s influence Conor McGregor’s influence on MMA is undeniable. His return could reignite interest among fans and create the sport’s all-important audience. As McGregor moves into his recovery, the UFC world awaits with bated breath for his next step.
Conor McGregor’s injury and possible return inspired a lot of different opinions. While some question his ability to return to the top, others like John Anik remain optimistic. McGregor’s career future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the UFC community will be watching closely.
