Conor McGregor has teased his UFC comeback, indicating a potential fight with Dan Hooker in Saudi Arabia, but with a significant twist. The Irish fighter, who has been out of action since July 2021 after sustaining a broken leg in a bout against Dustin Poirier, had plans to face Michael Chandler this past June. However, those plans were derailed after McGregor suffered a broken toe, prompting Chandler to move on and accept a different opponent in Charles Oliveira.
With Chandler’s decision to face Oliveira in November, McGregor has set his sights on a showdown with Dan Hooker. The two lightweights have reportedly agreed to square off on 1st February in Saudi Arabia. Their agreement comes after a conversation in the ring at a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship event held on Saturday, where McGregor confirmed to Bloody Elbow about the upcoming fight.
In response, Hooker expressed his readiness for the fight, stating, “Lock it in…February 1 works for me, in Saudi. We’ll get that thing squared away.” He further emphasised the similarities between himself and McGregor, calling them “kindred spirits,” and expressed optimism about the UFC giving the green light for the match.
While the UFC has yet to announce its 2025 schedule, the organisation held its first-ever event in Saudi Arabia earlier this year and is expected to return to the region next year. McGregor’s frequent appearances at Saudi boxing events over the past year have fuelled speculation about his desire for a UFC return, with the fighter reaching out to Turki Al-Sheikh, the brains behind the nation’s boxing project, for support.
Despite his upcoming clash with Oliveira, Chandler has hinted at the possibility of still facing McGregor in the future. The stage is set for a potential showdown between the Irish superstar and the American fighter, adding to the anticipation and excitement within the UFC community.
As fans eagerly await official confirmation and further details, the prospect of McGregor’s comeback and his potential clash with Hooker in Saudi Arabia has generated significant buzz and excitement within the UFC world.