Conor McGregor has finally weighed in on the major shift in the UFC landscape, expressing his enthusiasm following Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight championship.
The former two-division UFC champion has never held back when it comes to Dagestani fighters, particularly Makhachev and his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov. Their rivalry traces back to McGregor’s infamous 2018 clash with Khabib, and he has consistently criticized the grappling-heavy style that fighters from that region rely on.
Now, McGregor has shared his thoughts on a series of announcements made by UFC President Dana White—most notably, Makhachev stepping away from the lightweight throne to chase a new challenge in the welterweight division.
Makhachev Moves to Welterweight, Vacates Lightweight Belt
In a late-night Instagram Live session on Tuesday, Dana White revealed a stacked lineup of upcoming UFC fights. Among the most eye-catching matchups is a showdown between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev, which will headline UFC 319. Also on the horizon is a lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Ilia Topuria at UFC 317.
White confirmed that the Oliveira vs Topuria bout would be for the vacant lightweight title—making it official that Islam Makhachev has given up the belt he defended more times than any lightweight in UFC history. The Russian standout is now turning his attention to the welterweight division, where he’s set to face Jack Della Maddalena in pursuit of a second championship.
McGregor Reacts: ‘Bravo, Dana White!’
McGregor, clearly energized by the developments, shared his thoughts on social media. He tweeted:
“Wow! Real exciting times again in the UFC! Oh Yes! Bravo, Dana White! Never a doubt!”
He didn’t stop there. McGregor also tagged several of his own business ventures—Tidl Sport, Forged Irish Stout, and his media outlet The Mac Life—alongside organizations like BKFC, the TKO Group (which owns both UFC and WWE), and a new boxing project, all while dropping a string of money bag emojis.
Is McGregor Returning to the Octagon?
His comeback in the sport still remains uncertain, although McGregor has remained so active on social media, posting constant commentary on the state of the sport. McGregor was lined up to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303 last year, but he broke his toe and was out of the fight. Since then, Chandler has gone on to fight twice more while rescheduling for McGregor's return remains to be done.
At present, it looks like the Irish star is focused on life outside the cage. From hardcore promotion of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) events to publicly considering entering politics in Ireland, McGregor seems to be happy with his life outside fighting. He also hinted at being satisfied with his UFC legacy, suggesting that a full-time return may not be in his plans.
Last Octagon Appearance: A Painful End (So Far)
The last time McGregor went to battle was at UFC 264, where he suffered a gruesome leg break in the first round of the Poirier trilogy affair. Since then, while he has healed completely, there hasn't been much evidence that he's setting out for a return to the Octagon anytime soon.
There has been an evolution in the UFC, division shifts from major fighters, and fans hoping for another McGregor show. But for the time being, it appears "The Notorious" stays on the sidelines-another year to just watch, react, and build his empire outside the cage.