"Just cut that dude already," "What a f**kin' joke" - Fans react to Dana White dismissing Conor McGregor's UFC return this year 

Dana White recently ruled out Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the octagon. White's announcement has garnered attention from fans worldwide, with many taking a dig at McGregor.

McGregor was slated to face-off with Michael Chandler since the two were handed coaching duties on 'The Ultimate Fighter' last year. After multiple delays, the welterweight contest was officially announced to take place at UFC 303 this past June. However, the bout was called off after 'The Notorious' suffered a toe injury while training.

Since then, fans and pundits have speculated on the future of the promotion's biggest star. During a social media interaction with a fan, McGregor revealed that he expects to return by the end of this year.

But White believes differently. At the press conference following the first episode of Dana White's Contender Series (DWCS) 8, questions concerning McGregor's likely comeback this year were posed to the UFC CEO. White stated that, while the Irishman desired to fight, his return won't take place this year.

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

Check out Dana White's comments on Conor McGregor's return below:

Fans soon rushed to the comments section to share their reactions.

One fan wrote:

''Just cut that dude already. Dude's just trying to get attention at this point.''

Another fan stated:

''What a fu*kin joke.''

Here are other reactions:

''Idk why y’all still allowing yourselves to be strung along. McGregor and Dana are playing games. If Conor was serious this would’ve already happened. If he’s not done yet, he’s definitely close to the end. Don’t know what he’s trying to prove but this is getting sad.''

''Lost 4 out if his last 5, any one else would’ve been cut by now lol he’s not even making the ufc money so why keep him I doubt he’ll fight for any other org.''

Check out more reactions below:

Screenshot of fan reactions to Championship Rounds' post on X

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Conor McGregor responds to Dana White's remarks about him not fighting this year

After Dana White's statement went viral on social media, Conor McGregor responded by calling for a fight in December. The former UFC double champion took to X 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!"