Has Conor McGregor lost his grip on the UFC’s throne? The Irishman who once ruled the spotlight and brought in huge paydays doesn’t seem to have the same pull anymore. Ilia Topuria recently dismissed a potential fight with McGregor, calling him a “joker.” While McGregor still holds a place in the UFC’s history, it seems Topuria is no longer rushing for the big-money fight, signaling a shift in the sport’s dynamics.
For the past two years, the excitement of McGregor’s return has been a constant buzz. This time, rumors of a 2025 showdown with Topuria began circulating after Dana White hinted at unexpected matchups for the year. Fans were excited, but Topuria quickly shut down the idea, like a balloon popping mid-air. It was McGregor who first did it, announcing his exhibition fight against Logan Paul in India.
Topuria quickly put the rumors to rest, shutting down any talk of a McGregor matchup. He called the idea false, saying he wasn’t interested in fighting someone with a past like McGregor’s, using strong words to express his disinterest. In his words, “The rumors of bout with mchicken are false. I don’t fight nor am I interested in fighting with a ra**st.”
The rumors of bout with mchicken are false. I don't fight nor am I interested in fighting with a rapist.
— Ilia Topuria (@Topuriailia) December 17, 2024
Indeed, after the recent controversy where McGregor was proven guilty in the sexual assault case involving Nikita Hand, his stock seems to have taken a hit. With Topuria’s clear rejection of a potential fight, it’s evident that McGregor’s once unshakable draw is fading. His comeback, once a hyped event, now seems less likely to capture the same excitement, as not every fighter is keen to engage with him anymore.
Conor McGregor Announced Logan Paul Fight Ahead Of UFC Return
While Topuria quickly dismissed the rumors, it was McGregor who first shut them down. He called the idea of a fight with Topuria false and made it clear that his return to the ring wouldn’t be against the Georgian fighter. Instead, McGregor revealed that his first fight back would be against Logan Paul, with preliminary talks already underway with the Ambanis for a boxing exhibition match.
He said, “The rumors of a bout with Topurio are false. I am in preliminary agreements with the Ambani family to face Logan Paul in a boxing exhibition in India. I have agreed, I will then seek my return to the Octagon.”
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It seems McGregor’s focus is shifting toward new opportunities, moving away from the UFC spotlight for now. One thing is clear: a fight with Topuria is off the table. McGregor has made it clear multiple times that his UFC return will be against Michael Chandler.
Also Read: Conor McGregor Celebrates Ninth Anniversary Of His Historic Win Over Jose Aldo As ”McGregor Day”
