Conor McGregor is being tipped for a UFC return after Dustin Poirier made a daring prediction on 7 Jul 2026, saying the Irish fighter will step back into the Octagon before the end of the year. Poirier’s claim has ignited speculation about McGregor’s next move, contract status and the impact on the lightweight division.
What did Dustin Poirier say?
Poirier, the former lightweight champion, told reporters in Dublin that he believes McGregor will sign a fight contract within the next six months. He added that the former two‑division champion “won’t stay idle for long” and hinted that a bout with a top‑10 contender could be on the horizon. Poirier’s comments came during a press conference for his upcoming fight against Rafael Fiziev.
Why is the claim significant?
McGregor has been out of competition since his loss to Michael Chandler in early 2025, and rumors about his health and motivation have swirled. Poirier’s statement gives fans a concrete timeline, suggesting that McGregor’s management is actively negotiating. If true, the Irish star could reshape the lightweight rankings, especially with current champion Islam Makhachev defending his title later this year.
How could a return affect the division?
A McGregor comeback would force the UFC to shuffle match‑ups. Fighters like Charles Oliveira, Beneil Dariush and Dustin Poirier himself sit near the top of the contender list. A fight against any of them would carry high stakes, potentially altering title‑shot trajectories. Moreover, McGregor’s marketability could boost pay‑per‑view numbers, a factor the promotion never ignores.
What are the next steps for McGregor?
Sources close to the fighter say negotiations are underway with multiple promoters, and a medical clearance is expected by late August. McGregor is reportedly training at SBG Ireland under John Kavanagh, focusing on cardio and striking refinements. If Poirier’s prediction holds, an official announcement could arrive before the UFC’s September event in Las Vegas.
What does this mean for fans?
Supporters will be watching every interview, social post and gym update for clues. The hype surrounding a possible return has already driven a surge in merchandise sales and search traffic. Whether Poirier’s bold claim turns into reality, the conversation alone keeps McGregor at the center of UFC headlines.
What could delay the comeback?
Injuries, contract disputes or a strategic decision to wait for a more lucrative opponent could stall plans. McGregor has previously cited family considerations and a desire to avoid rushed fights. Until a formal fight card is released, the timeline remains speculative.
What’s the bottom line?
Poirier’s assertion adds a fresh layer to the ongoing McGregor narrative. If the Irish fighter steps back into the Octagon before year‑end, the lightweight landscape will shift dramatically, and the UFC’s biggest draw will once again dominate the conversation.