Conor McGregor drops major update on new opponent, date, and venue for UFC return after BKFC event
Conor McGregor recently shared an update about his much-anticipated octagon return following the BKFC event. BKFC Spain took place this past Saturday at the Marbella Arena in Spain. The event was headlined by a showdown between Franco Tenaglia and Tony Soto for the vacant BKFC lightweight title.
Following the event, McGregor spoke in an interview with Bloody Elbow about his expected return. In response, 'The Notorious' stated that his octagon comeback would occur next year, saying:
''February first, Saudi Arabia''
When asked who his possible opponent was, McGregor replied:
''Dan Hooker''
Check out Conor McGregor's comments below (0:38):
Notably, Hooker also marked his presence at BKFC Spain. The No. 5 ranked lightweight was in the corner for MMA journalist Oscar Willis’ fight against Ben Davis and was spotted conversing with McGregor.
Check out video of Conor McGregor and Dan Hooker's conversation below:
As for the MMA scene, McGregor last competed in 2021 against former interim champion Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. He broke his leg at the end of the opening round, which resulted in a TKO victory for Poirier. Following a lengthy hiatus, the Irishman served as a coach opposite Michael Chandler in season 31 of 'The Ultimate Fighter', and the two were slated to square off before the end of 2023. However, their fight was derailed due to a variety of reasons, including McGregor's issues with USADA.
McGregor's highly anticipated welterweight bout against Chandler was scheduled for UFC 303 earlier this year, however, a toe injury sustained while training forced the former two-division champion to withdraw from the fight. McGregor is now set to return next year, according to UFC CEO Dana White.
Meanwhile, Hooker has previously expressed his desire to take on McGregor. In his last octagon outing at UFC 305, the Kiwi squared off against Mateusz Gamrot and secured a split-decision win.