Conor McGregor remains one of the most polarizing figures in combat sports, and despite years of inactivity, the former UFC double champion is still plotting a sensational return to the Octagon. While many critics believe his fighting days are behind him, “The Notorious” has continued to tease a comeback — and now, a surprise connection with a reigning champion has fueled speculation that McGregor’s long-awaited return could be closer than ever.
The Irish superstar, who made history as the UFC’s first-ever simultaneous two-division champion, has not fought since UFC 264 in July 2021. That night ended in disaster when he suffered a broken leg against rival Dustin Poirier, forcing a stoppage after the first round. The injury sidelined McGregor indefinitely and, combined with his ventures outside the cage, has left him with just one win in the past eight years. For many, the image of McGregor as an elite competitor has faded into memory.
Still, the 36-year-old refuses to close the door on his career. Reports suggest that McGregor has set his sights on 2026 for a return, with his ambition tied to one of the most unique events in UFC history: a July 4 card at the White House, announced earlier this year by U.S. President Donald Trump.
A White House Stage for McGregor’s Redemption?
UFC president Dana White recently fueled speculation by confirming that plans for a blockbuster fight card at the White House are officially moving forward. Speaking after a series of meetings in Washington, White revealed the historic event is locked in.
“I had a great day,” White said. “I’m just about to take off here from Washington, D.C. We had the meeting at the White House. It could not have gone better. This is gonna be awesome. The White House fight is on. The White House fight is on! I’ll have more details on that in the next couple of weeks. But we got it done today.”
The announcement has reignited speculation over which fighters will headline the card. With Jon Jones ruled out by White himself, McGregor’s chances of reclaiming the spotlight have grown considerably. For a fighter who thrives on grand stages and historic moments, a main event at the White House could serve as the ultimate comeback platform.
Merab Dvalishvili’s Surprise Connection
If McGregor does indeed return, he may not be alone in his preparation. Bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili, one of the UFC’s most dominant current fighters, revealed a surprise interaction with McGregor that could pave the way for an unlikely training partnership.
During an appearance on the Full Send Podcast, Dvalishvili recounted a FaceTime call he shared with McGregor while attending the UFC event in Shanghai last weekend. The call came through McGregor’s friends, who connected the two stars.
“I think he’s really motivated,” Dvalishvili said. “Actually, when I was in China, I met his friends and we FaceTimed, and he asked me if we could train.
“I said, ‘Let’s go, Conor. I would like to train with you.’ Now I have a fight, I’m not gonna go (anywhere). After my fight, I wanna fight again this year. After, I can go visit him. We both follow each other on Instagram. Hopefully, we can do it. I’m excited for him, I would like to see him in a White House fight.”
Dvalishvili, known for his relentless pace and unmatched wrestling, has built a reputation as one of the hardest workers in the UFC. His involvement in McGregor’s training camp would represent a major shift in approach for the Irishman, who has often relied on his striking. A partnership between McGregor’s precision and Dvalishvili’s grind could offer an intriguing glimpse of a more well-rounded “Notorious.”
The Road Back for McGregor
While excitement grows around the White House event and McGregor’s link with Dvalishvili, major questions remain. McGregor has not competed in over four years, and the sport has evolved in his absence. Younger stars have risen, divisions have shifted, and the Irishman’s last significant victory dates back to 2020 against Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone.
Yet, McGregor’s name continues to hold unrivaled weight in combat sports. Whether fans love him or loathe him, his ability to generate attention and revenue is unmatched. UFC’s decision to bring him back, especially for an event tied to such a unique venue, would not only guarantee headlines but also global interest.
What remains unclear is who McGregor would face. Dana White has yet to offer any hints, but the return bout will undoubtedly require a balance between spectacle and competitiveness. McGregor’s star power ensures that any matchup will be a pay-per-view draw, but questions about his physical readiness and long absence cannot be ignored.
Dvalishvili’s Role in the Narrative
For Merab Dvalishvili, the connection with McGregor is equally compelling. Already carving his own legacy as a dominant bantamweight, his willingness to support McGregor shows the mutual respect fighters often share, despite differences in weight class or fighting style.
Should the two train together, it could become a storyline in itself leading into 2026. Dvalishvili’s grinding work ethic and tireless conditioning have made him one of the most feared fighters in the sport. Bringing that discipline into McGregor’s camp could reinvigorate the former champion’s preparation, potentially helping him silence critics who doubt his commitment.
A Defining Moment Awaits
The UFC’s White House card is shaping up to be one of the most unprecedented events in combat sports history. With Dana White confirming the deal is done, all eyes now turn to the roster and potential headliners.
For McGregor, this could represent the perfect storm: a high-profile comeback after years of speculation, a chance to redeem his career, and the possibility of adding another chapter to his legacy alongside one of the UFC’s most relentless champions in Merab Dvalishvili.
Whether it happens or not, the conversation has already reignited excitement around a fighter who, despite his absence, still commands the world’s attention.
