Conor McGregor has confirmed he will not fight on the UFC's White House card, instead targeting a return on July 11. The Irishman had been expected to headline the event on June 14 at the White House against Michael Chandler, but UFC CEO Dana White will announce the card on Saturday without McGregor's name.
Speaking to Smash Cast, McGregor said: 'As I was aware, it was the White House. I was up for the White House. I know the administration was strong for me to be in the White House. It was McGregor versus Chandler.' He added that the promotion suggested moving him to International Fight Week in July, leaving Chandler behind.
McGregor expressed sympathy for Chandler, stating: 'I do like Chandler. I have been preparing for him for the last two years. I feel a bit weird; he deserves to go after the waiting and it would be a great fight.' He also confirmed he will compete at welterweight, saying: 'I'm going to do 170. As you know I'm a big boy. A lot bigger than before.'
The former two-division champion revealed his manager Audi is meeting with UFC officials in Las Vegas on Monday to finalise a contract. 'I hope a respectable offer comes through,' he said. The White House card may now be headlined by Jon Jones, potentially against Alex Pereira.
