McGregor announced the date of his return to the Octagon and the name of his future opponent
Liam Garcia
Dailysports's expert
The return of Conor McGregor to the octagon is eagerly awaited by many fans. After suffering an injury in 2021, the Irishman was supposed to make his comeback in July of this year, but another injury delayed those plans. Today, McGregor himself revealed the date of his return and the name of his first opponent.
Details: Today in Spain, a BKFC tournament - a promotion specializing in bare-knuckle fighting—took place. It’s worth noting that McGregor recently became a co-owner of the organization.
Following the event, as McGregor was leaving the arena, Bloody Elbow journalists asked him about his return to MMA. Initially, McGregor told them off, but eventually, he responded. When asked about his return to the octagon, he said:
"February 1, 2025."
As for his opponent, McGregor replied:
"Dan Hooker."
Interestingly, just minutes before this, Bloody Elbow had spoken with Hooker. He mentioned:
"I already have a fight date and an opponent. And he's a very busy man. It’s going to be at the start of next year."
Hooker also expressed some surprise at McGregor's desire to return to MMA, stating that with McGregor’s business success and millions in the bank, there should be no need for him to fight again.
Quote: "I came here, saw what he's been up to, and thought that if I had as many successful business ventures and millions in my account, you'd never see me near the ring again," Hooker said during his interview with Bloody Elbow, laughing afterward.
Reminder: Conor McGregor last appeared in the octagon on July 11, 2021. During his third fight against Dustin Poirier, the Irishman broke his left leg in the first round and has not fought since.
If the McGregor vs. Hooker fight happens on February 1, it will be part of UFC Fight Night 250, which is set to take place at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Notably, this event will not be a numbered UFC tournament.
