The MMA world has been on a rollercoaster ride of anticipation regarding Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon. Initial reports suggested that UFC 300 might not host the comeback of “The Notorious,” with the UFC eyeing a July date for the Irish superstar. However, Ariel Helwani, a renowned MMA reporter, has now provided a glimmer of hope for fans eager to witness McGregor’s return sooner than expected.
In a recent appearance on The Timbo Sugar Show, Helwani addressed the evolving situation, indicating that plans might be in flux despite earlier statements from McGregor’s coach, John Kavanagh.
“Didn’t you just hear John Kavanagh say no on my show?” Helwani questioned, referring to Kavanagh’s previous statement. “But I’ve heard since then that maybe plans are changing.”
The uncertainty surrounding McGregor’s return has sparked speculation about the UFC’s strategic planning. Helwani suggested that the promotion might be carefully orchestrating the perfect scenario for McGregor’s comeback, given his immense popularity and drawing power.
“Sometimes I feel like the UFC, because Conor is such a big deal, they try to find like the perfect scenario for him to fight in,” Helwani explained. “And I can understand from a business standpoint why you wouldn’t want to put him on 300.”
While there may be business considerations, Helwani expressed a sentiment shared by many fans—McGregor’s eagerness to fight and the potential blockbuster nature of UFC 300 make it a prime opportunity for his return.
“300 is going to sell itself because of the pageantry of the number and whatnot, so maybe if you put him on 301, you get two bites at that million buy apple,” Helwani suggested. “Maybe 301 wouldn’t be great without him, but to me, come on man. Conor’s ready to go, who knows how many fights he has left in him, he’s foaming at the mouth, he’s almost begging for a fight. Put him on that damn card.”
The potential desperation on the UFC’s part also comes into play, considering the lack of a clear headlining fight for UFC 300. With major stars injured or on breaks, McGregor emerges as a beacon of star power and intrigue for a landmark event like UFC 300.
As the saga of McGregor’s return unfolds, fight enthusiasts around the globe remain on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting official announcements and hoping that the UFC seizes the opportunity to showcase Conor McGregor on the monumental stage of UFC 300.
