Conor McGregor has deleted his Instagram account, prompting UFC fans to speculate that the Irish fighter is preparing for a serious return to the octagon. The 37-year-old has not fought since losing to Dustin Poirier in 2021 and was forced to withdraw from a scheduled bout against Michael Chandler last year due to a training injury.
McGregor has teased a possible return in 2026, particularly eyeing a historic UFC event at the White House in June. Last July, US President Donald Trump announced plans for the event, and UFC boss Dana White has since received approval to stage it on the South Lawn. McGregor quickly volunteered for the card, which is expected to be confirmed in February.
Last month, the Dubliner posted a message to his followers indicating he would take a social media break while intensifying his training. His long-time coach, John Kavanagh, revealed that McGregor is fully committed to preparing for the White House card. 'He's asked me to lay out a programme between now and June,' Kavanagh said on The Ariel Helwani Show. 'He's showing up again, back in the gym most mornings, and having fun with it.'
McGregor had previously claimed his UFC return was confirmed, but his superior denied this. He also faced an 18-month ban for missing three drug tests last year, which would have prevented him from fighting before March 2026. However, the ban does not rule him out of the June event.
