Conor McGregor has confirmed he will return to the UFC this summer after settling a legal dispute with former fighter Artem Lobov over the proceeds from the sale of a whiskey brand.
Lobov had sought legal action against McGregor over the sale of Proper No. Twelve, a brand he helped promote. McGregor sold his stake to Proximo Spirits in 2021 for a reported $130 million (£96 million). The matter was due for trial in Dublin's High Court on Wednesday, but was resolved after the court was told a settlement agreement had been reached.
McGregor's barrister, Mark Lynam, read a statement in court on his behalf, saying: "I'm satisfied that this matter has been resolved and I can focus on my training and this summer's fight. I want to thank Artem for his hard work for my whiskey business." Lobov said he was "happy" with the resolution, and the judge described the agreement as sensible.
The former two-weight world champion has not fought since breaking his leg in the first round of his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier five years ago. He was due to return two years ago against Michael Chandler, but pulled out with a broken toe. McGregor is expected to headline the UFC's flagship card on International Fight Week, with a return tipped for July 11 in Las Vegas. Max Holloway has been mentioned as a potential opponent.
In a social media post, McGregor wrote: "I'm coming back to do what I do. Knock people out for my money."
