McGregor receives a challenge that could put him in contention for a UFC title.

Conor McGregor He receives a challenge that could earn him a title shot. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram/Thenotoriousmma

The possibility of Conor McGregor Returning to the UFC octagon has taken on a new and unexpected dimension in recent days. A challenge launched by Arman Tsarukyan, currently ranked number one in the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg), could put the Irishman right back in the center of the title race, even after years away from competition.

Since suffering a serious leg fracture in 2021, McGregor's return has always been treated with caution. However, the organization's plans for a special event at the White House, scheduled for June 2026, rekindled the former champion's interest. From then on, the Irishman returned to regular training and had his name reinstated in the UFC's anti-doping program, a mandatory step for any athlete who intends to fight.

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Until recently, the most talked-about matchup for McGregor's return was against Michael chandlerBut the scenario changed after the dominant victory of Arman Tsarukyan about Dan Hooker, finished in the second round of UFC Qatar, last Saturday (22).

After the victory, the Armenian made it clear that, if he doesn't immediately receive a title shot, he would only return to the octagon to face McGregor. In an interview with the former champion... Daniel CormierTsarukyan was direct and provocative.

"He would never agree to fight me, and the UFC wouldn't approve it either. It would be a nightmare for Conor. People would laugh. It would be like me fighting against..." Paddy Pimblett“, the 29-year-old athlete retorted, in an ironic tone.

Despite the provocations, the strategy has merit. A confrontation against McGregor would keep Tsarukyan in the spotlight without necessarily taking him out of direct contention for the belt, especially if the fight against Ilia Topuria not to materialize in the short term.

Leves await a decision while Topuria desires other names.

Lightweight football is currently experiencing a period of uncertainty. Ilia TopuriaThe current champion has already indicated that, if he doesn't have the opportunity to move up to face [opponent's name], he will not be able to do so. Islam makhachev In the welterweight division (up to 77 kg), I would like to defend my belt against Paddy PimblettBehind the scenes, there's even growing speculation that this duel is commercially appealing to the organization.

If this path is followed, Tsarukyan could end up being sidelined, opening up space for unexpected rearrangements at the top of the division. It is precisely in this vacuum that McGregor's name reappears as a key piece, capable of completely altering the landscape.

For now, the Irishman remains silent. But the equation is simple: accepting the challenge not only puts him back at the center of the biggest stage in world MMA, but also brings him closer, once again, to a title fight, something few achieve even after long periods away.