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

Conor McGregor He received an unprecedented offer to return to the UFC that could, incidentally, put him back in contention for the lightweight title (up to 70,3 kg). This possibility would shake up the division's landscape, and there's already a potential opponent in the running: Arman Tsarukyan, first placed in the division ranking.

The idea of ​​seeing the Irishman competing again seemed unlikely since the leg fracture he suffered in 2021. Still, the star returned to training with a focus on 2026, when he learned of the UFC's plan to hold a special event at the White House in June of next year.

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From that point on, retirement was out of the question and McGregor's name reappeared in the company's anti-doping system, a mandatory step to be cleared to fight.

Until recently, the return against Michael chandler It was treated as the natural path. But the scenario changed quickly. Tsarukyan, who just finished Dan Hooker in the second round of UFC QatarLast Saturday (22), he made it clear that if he doesn't get the chance to fight for the belt immediately, he would only step into the octagon to face McGregor.

In conversation with Daniel CormierThe Armenian fighter was provocative, just the way some fight fans like it.

“He would never fight me. The UFC wouldn’t allow that fight either. It would be a nightmare for Conor. People would laugh. It would be like me against Paddy (Pimblett). A comedy show,” the Armenian said via YouTube channel. Daniel Cormier on Youtube.

Despite the harsh tone, there is logic to the 29-year-old athlete's plan. Facing McGregor without losing his challenger status could keep him in contention for the belt, should a direct fight with McGregor occur. Ilia Topuria not be confirmed.

On the other hand, if the fight happens and the Irishman wins, his name and performance could put him on the radar for a potential title shot.

Leves await a decision while Topuria desires other names.

The division is currently in a tug-of-war. Topuria has already made it clear that if she doesn't get the chance to fight for the welterweight title (up to 77 kg) against... Islam makhachevI would like to defend my belt against Pimblett next.

At the same time, behind-the-scenes speculation suggests that the Spaniard, the current lightweight champion, may indeed face the English star, something that would push Tsarukyan back in the rankings.

The clash between generations is clear: McGregor, Topuria, and Tsarukyan represent distinct profiles. And the UFC knows that any combination there will generate global headlines.

McGregor, for now, is keeping his answer a secret. But one thing is already certain: if the offer brings him closer to the title, it also puts him back at the center of the industry he dominates most: show business.