Dana White says Conor McGregor will not fight in 2024, Irishman issues protest: "Come on now, what's this?" 

It appears Dana White and Conor McGregor aren't on the same page regarding the Irishman's highly anticipated return to action. After White recently stated that McGregor would not be gracing the octagon this year, McGregor took to social media to issue a strong protest and suggested a potential return date.

During the post-fight press conference after the first episode of Dana White's Contender Series 8 (DWCS), the UFC CEO was asked about McGregor potentially returning to action this year. White stated that while the Irishman wanted to fight, his comeback bout would not take place this year. He said:

"We talked... We didn't meet up, but we talked... He wants to fight... Not this year. He won't fight this year."

Soon after clips of White's statement began circulating on social media, McGregor issued his response and called for a fight in December. In an X post, the Irishman reacted to White's comments and wrote:

"Ah Dana, December is the date! Bring the calendar year home with a winning event! Come on now, what’s this? I am off to altitude next month to prepare. DECEMBER! Tell Dana and UFC WE WANT DECEMBER! WE DESERVE DECEMBER!"

Check out Conor McGregor's post below:

Screenshots from @The NotoriousMMA on X

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Michael Chandler on potentially moving past Conor McGregor matchup

Michael Chandler recently opened up about his fight against Conor McGregor and claimed he's ready to move on from the matchup if needed. The two were meant to throw down at UFC 303 after being rival coaches on The Ultimate Fighter reality show (TUF 31) last year, but the Irishman suffered a toe injury that forced him out of the bout.

During a recent interview, Chandler discussed the bout that had kept him away from action for too long and suggested an ex-rival as an alternative opponent for his next fight.

"I am an optimist by default, so I do believe the Conor fight will happen... But as much as I respect Conor, my legacy is not hinged upon this fight... I am at the point now where we are looking at all of the options and not just fighting Conor... There’s always going to be life after Conor if this fight never comes to fruition.''

Chandler continued:

''The most realistic option for me if you look at the landscape and you consider everything is Charles Oliveira. I love the rematch with Charles. I think it’s a great fight to get the fans pumped up.'' [H/t: MMA Mania]