Conor McGregor has stated he will not fight on the UFC's upcoming White House event and instead plans to return in July. The Irish fighter was previously expected to face Michael Chandler on June 14 but now anticipates a bout on July 11 at welterweight. UFC CEO Dana White is set to announce the White House lineup without McGregor.
Conor McGregor addressed speculation about his next fight during an appearance on Smash Cast, clarifying his status ahead of the UFC's White House announcement. He confirmed that he will not headline the card scheduled for June 14 on President Donald Trump's front lawn, where he had been linked to a matchup against Michael Chandler. "As I was aware, it was the White House," McGregor said. "I was up for the White House. I know the administration was strong for me to be in the White House. It was McGregor versus Chandler. The story was built in; Chandler is a standup guy, he's electric in the cage."
McGregor expressed some disappointment but acceptance of the change, noting preparations for Chandler over the past two years. "I do like Chandler," he added. "I have been preparing for him for the last two years. I feel a bit weird; he deserves to go after the waiting and it would be a great fight... So I'm sorry Chandler, it is what it is." The fighter emphasized his eagerness to return, stating he is not being selective about opponents to end his current hiatus.
Regarding weight class, McGregor affirmed a move to welterweight. "I'm going to do 170," he said. "As you know I'm a big boy. A lot bigger than before." His manager, Audi, is scheduled for a face-to-face meeting in Las Vegas on Monday to discuss potential offers. McGregor hopes for a respectable contract soon, having accepted various matchup proposals in the past without finalization.
The White House event, to be revealed by Dana White on Saturday night, may now feature Jon Jones returning against Alex Pereira, who recently vacated his light heavyweight title. McGregor's return is targeted for July 11, potentially during International Fight Week.
