Conor McGregor`s UFC career appears to be over, which isn`t surprising to some.
The former UFC Champion was scheduled to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303, but withdrew due to an injury, leading to the cancellation of the highly anticipated match.
The fight has not been rescheduled, and Chael Sonnen has expressed doubts about the legitimacy of McGregor`s injury.
With McGregor`s rumored political aspirations, many believe his fighting career is finished and fans won`t see him in the octagon again.
While McGregor often generates drama and intrigue, UFC legend Matt Brown stated that he is not surprised by McGregor`s potential retirement.
Matt Brown Expected Conor McGregor`s UFC Exit
Despite the shock many fans might feel, Matt Brown, a UFC veteran, is not surprised by McGregor`s potential departure from the sport.
Brown reminded fans that McGregor had previously indicated his plan to make money and then leave the fight game.
Speaking on the Fighter vs. Writer podcast, Brown recounted McGregor`s past statements:
“He told us about 10 years ago what he intended to do. Remember him saying he would come in, dominate, make money, and then get out?”
“He mentioned that this sport is brutal and not something to stay in for too long. He said this around 8 or 10 years ago. He literally told us his plan, and he`s following through with it.”
“This is not surprising at all. He enjoys being in the spotlight and staying relevant. He keeps his opinions public, and we pay attention. We are still discussing him.”
“He`s done a good job playing the media. I`ve said before, he’s done with fighting. I think he’s just confirming what many of us already suspected.”
McGregor`s planned return at UFC 303 was supposed to be his first fight since his consecutive losses to Dustin Poirier in 2021.
Political Ambitions Don`t Necessarily Mean End of Fighting Career
Even with the fight cancellation and hints at a political career, McGregor still expresses a desire to fight in the UFC.
The former UFC Champion has spoken about running for President of Ireland and has been increasing his political involvement, including meeting with Donald Trump.
He has stated his ambition to be President while still actively fighting in the Octagon, a feat never before accomplished.
“And now entering the octagon: The Notorious, the President of Ireland, Conor McGregor! Of course. Are you crazy?”
“That’s part of my motivation. To be introduced as the President of Ireland before a fight.”
The next Irish Presidential election is in November 2025, leaving McGregor limited time to build momentum for his campaign.
