In 2024, fans had high hopes of seeing Conor McGregor return to the Octagon. However, the UFC star’s comeback didn’t materialize, leaving fans to carry their hopes into 2025. Meanwhile, Demetrious Johnson, who retired in 2024, raised a significant question about ‘The Notorious,’ asking why a millionaire like McGregor still wants to fight.
The Irish fighter hasn’t competed since his loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. Although McGregor attempted a comeback in 2024, setbacks kept him out of action. Fans hoped to see the two-division champion return at UFC 303, but he had to withdraw from the fight due to an injury. Later, rumors circulated about a potential fight at UFC 310, but they turned out to be false. Despite this, fans remain optimistic about seeing ‘The Notorious’ back in the Octagon in 2025.
Former flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson, however, questioned McGregor’s determination to make an MMA comeback. During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, ‘Mighty Mouse’ asked why McGregor is so intent on returning to the cage. Johnson said:
“Conor McGregor, if I was to ask him why are you still fighting? What makes you want to come back? You have all the money in the world that you can ever want. An extra 10/20 million that should not effect the 500 million he’s made off selling. I don’t know how much cocaine is, I don’t know but it can’t be that expensive. I don’t know.”
😬Demestrious Johnson questions why Conor McGregor still wants to fight:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 9, 2024
“Conor McGregor if I was to ask him why are you still fighting…you have all the money in the world that you can ever want.
An extra 10/20 million that should not effect the 500 million he’s made…I don’t… pic.twitter.com/GcygPa9yPl
McGregor may have immense wealth, but fans still want to see ‘The Notorious’ back in the Octagon. Meanwhile, recently retired Demetrious Johnson was called out by UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.
Demetrious Johnson Responds To Alexandre Pantoja’s Callout, Confirms No Comeback Plans
Alexandre Pantoja submitted Kai Asakura in the second round at UFC 310, dominating from start to finish. After defending his flyweight title for the third time, Pantoja called out former champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, challenging him to prove who’s the true GOAT.
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Johnson, however, responded in a YouTube video, firmly stating he has no plans to return from retirement, citing his age, accomplishments, and financial stability. The former flyweight champion said, “My black a** ain’t coming out of retirement. Boys, the bank account is sitting nice and good. At 38 years old, with 11 title defenses, I ain’t coming back.”
⚡️ Demetrious Johnson reacts to Alexandre Pantoja calling him out:
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) December 8, 2024
“My black a** ain’t coming out of retirement.”😅
🎥 YT @MightyMouse ▫️ pic.twitter.com/lJeJ4GIVHd
With Johnson declining the callout, Pantoja will need to explore other contenders in the division. Fans eagerly await updates on Pantoja’s next fight and what lies ahead for the Brazilian champion.
Also Read: Michael Chandler’s Obsession With Conor McGregor Still Burns Hot After UFC 309 Loss
