Overview

• McGregor told Fox News his return will take place on the White House South Lawn for America’s 250th celebration, calling it a “done deal, signed, delivered.”
• Neither the UFC nor the White House has confirmed his announcement, with the bout discussed within Semiquincentennial planning overseen by a White House task force chaired by President Donald Trump.
• UFC CEO Dana White has cited unique hurdles for staging an Octagon on the South Lawn, including security constraints and a potential $700,000 cost to replace damaged grass.
• Michael Chandler, whom McGregor has publicly targeted, says he wants the matchup and is looking toward the 2026 event.
• McGregor says he has two fights remaining on his UFC contract and has spoken of a new deal being prepared, while skeptics such as Jorge Masvidal question whether he will actually return after years without a bout.