McGregor expects UFC return in April: 'I just want to get back'

Conor McGregor says it's looking likely that his long-awaited UFC comeback will take place in spring 2024.

"They're saying April now," McGregor told MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn on Saturday. "I'm happy with April. I would've loved earlier, but I have to be - if I'm to be honest and be realistic, and for my fans, I want to put in a good run. Build myself back. It's looking like April in mixed martial arts."

The promotion's tentpole UFC 300 event is on track to happen in April.

McGregor initially targeted a return to the cage in late 2023 but didn't reenter the USADA drug-testing pool in time to make that a reality. The former two-division champion coached "The Ultimate Fighter 31" alongside lightweight contender Michael Chandler earlier this year and is still expected to face Chandler in his next UFC bout.

McGregor rejoined the testing pool earlier in October and recently submitted his first sample since withdrawing from the program after breaking his leg in a July 2021 fight. Of course, the UFC is ending its anti-doping partnership with the USADA on Jan. 1, 2024.

"I have been kept from my living for almost three years now," McGregor said. "Understand that. I came through what I came through. I'm sitting on an injury and a loss. ... I must return to my way of living. This is my job. It's beyond frustrating."

He added: "I just want to get back and get active. I want to become the best me before I call it a day."

When asked if he believes he'll fight Chandler next, McGregor said he doesn't care.

"It's whoever they want," McGregor said. "I will never say no. I just want a date. I'll never say no to no one. Chandler is what it seems to be. But it does not matter to me."