McGregor signals comeback with cryptic social media message
Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor has once again stirred speculation about his long-awaited return, revealing that he may already have an opponent lined up — while simultaneously downplaying the matchup.
McGregor posted on social media that a fight offer had surfaced, describing the potential opponent as a “no name” before stating his willingness to move forward and sign a contract. The post followed an earlier message in which the Irish superstar said he had been offered both an opponent and a fight date, a statement that was later removed but intensified expectations that negotiations are ongoing.
The comments mark the clearest indication yet that McGregor could be nearing his first octagon appearance since 2021.
Long layoff continues after 2021 defeat to Dustin Poirier
McGregor’s last fight came at UFC 257, where he suffered a stoppage loss to Dustin Poirier following severe leg damage. The bout ended a turbulent stretch that has kept one of the sport’s biggest attractions sidelined for several years.
In the immediate aftermath of that fight, McGregor openly acknowledged the emotional toll of the defeat, describing the experience as one of the sport’s dramatic highs and lows. He also revealed the extent of the physical damage, noting that repeated kicks compromised his leg and significantly limited his movement during the contest.
Despite the disappointment, McGregor credited Poirier’s performance and emphasized the importance of adapting his approach moving forward.
🚨 BREAKING: Conor McGregor revealed in a now-deleted tweet that he’s been offered an opponent and date for his UFC return and has accepted the offer 👀 pic.twitter.com/QnozWDoLVK
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 18, 2026
Missed comeback opportunity in 2024 extended absence
Momentum toward a comeback appeared to build when McGregor was booked to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 in 2024, but the fight was ultimately scrapped after a toe injury forced his withdrawal. The cancellation extended a hiatus that has become one of the longest competitive breaks of his career.
The prolonged absence has not diminished McGregor’s star power, however, as speculation surrounding his next fight continues to generate widespread attention across the MMA landscape.
Following their meeting, Poirier indicated openness to further competition, explaining that championship aspirations still motivate him despite already achieving significant milestones in the sport. He emphasized the emotional connection fighters develop with the opportunity to compete at the highest level, highlighting why marquee matchups remain meaningful even later in a career.
That perspective fueled ongoing fan interest in a potential trilogy, though McGregor’s latest comments suggest his immediate return may involve a different opponent.
Conor McGregor has been asking for his contract for 15 days straight now… Still no fight signed begging the #UFC to return… MMA community suggests he is facing Carlos Prates, but I put my money on Mauricio Ruffy 👀#ufc #mma #conormcgregor @thenotoriousmma pic.twitter.com/HKG5EuqpHZ
— West Till Death (@WestTillDeath) February 23, 2026
What McGregor’s comments mean for the UFC landscape
A McGregor comeback would immediately reshape the promotional picture, given his pay-per-view drawing ability and history of elevating opponent visibility. Even a matchup against a lesser-known contender could generate major attention while providing the Irish star a pathway back into divisional relevance.
From a competitive standpoint, questions remain about ring rust, durability following injury setbacks, and how McGregor’s striking-heavy style will translate after an extended absence. Still, his willingness to accept a fight offer signals that negotiations may be progressing toward a formal announcement.
For the UFC, securing McGregor’s return would represent both a commercial boost and a storyline capable of dominating the sport’s global conversation.
