UFC commentator and podcast host Joe Rogan has cast serious doubt on Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon. While speaking with Ilia Topuria on his podcast, Rogan expressed skepticism about whether the Irish superstar would ever fight again.
“If I had to bet, no. No, I don’t think he comes back. Because he hasn’t come back yet, and he could have if he really wanted to,” Rogan said, highlighting how McGregor's inactivity suggests a lack of urgency in staging a comeback.
Despite Rogan’s doubts, whispers from the UFC camp suggest that there may be one major factor that could pull McGregor back into the cage.
McGregor Teases BKFC Appearance But UFC Contract Stands in the Way
While McGregor hasn’t made any concrete moves toward a UFC return, he continues to keep fans intrigued with hints of alternative combat sports ventures. At the recent Knucklemania V event, McGregor spoke to The Schmo and floated the idea of a bare-knuckle showdown.
“One of these days you’ll see my music coming on to the stage in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, and I’ll come with my fists wrapped, with no gloves, and fight out of nowhere,” he teased.
However, before McGregor can pursue such options, he must address his remaining obligations with the UFC. He’s still under contract for two more fights, which could be a roadblock to other appearances.
Kyle Forgeard Suggests McGregor’s Lavish Lifestyle Could Force a Return
Another voice weighing in on the possibility of a McGregor return is Kyle Forgeard, of the Nelk Boys. Appearing on the FullSend podcast, Forgeard hinted that McGregor’s extravagant lifestyle might eventually push him back into the Octagon.
“I think so. I mean he has to, right? I think he has an expensive lifestyle too. When you’re f—king ripping your boat and taking jets and doing all that, money starts to get drained right?” Forgeard said.
“So he has two fights left with the UFC, and then after that, he has the freedom to do the big boxing events and all that.”
McGregor’s Focus Has Shifted, But Could That Change?
It’s been four years since McGregor last competed inside the Octagon—his last appearance being the leg-breaking bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. Since then, he’s shifted focus to his business empire, which includes ventures like the Black Forge Inn, Green Back Records, and TIDL Sports.
He’s also dipped his toes into the political scene in Ireland, sparking speculation that he might pursue public office. However, recent financial setbacks, including losses linked to his Dublin civil case, might motivate a return—especially for a lucrative payday.
Javier Mendez: McGregor’s Trash Talk Crossed the Line
While McGregor’s showmanship and brash personality have long been part of his brand, some believe he’s taken things too far—especially during his feud with Khabib Nurmagomedov. Khabib’s coach, Javier Mendez, recently weighed in on the matter during an episode of the Overdogs podcast with Mike Perry.
“[McGregor] hasn’t been the same after that loss to Khabib… Obviously, I don’t really like him because obviously he used dirty tactics. [If] You want to talk about a fighter, go ahead. But [McGregor] talked about religion, he talked about family, he talked about country. I don’t respect fighters doing that. I love a fighter that sticks to the fighter. Leave my kids out of it, leave my wife out of it. What do they have to do,” said Mendez.
This sentiment reflects a long-standing debate in combat sports—how far is too far when it comes to psychological warfare and trash talk?
Final Thoughts: Will Conor McGregor Ever Fight Again?
With multiple business interests, political ambitions, and a penchant for showmanship outside the cage, McGregor appears to be living life on his terms. Still, the allure of the fight game—and perhaps the pressure of an opulent lifestyle—might prove too strong to resist.
Whether it’s fulfilling his UFC contract or entering the world of bare-knuckle fighting, one thing is certain: the combat sports world will keep watching and waiting.