UFC 331 Conor McGregor Rumors: Is The 'Notorious' Return Finally Set For Late 2026?
The mixed martial arts world is buzzing once again as rumors intensify surrounding Conor McGregor and a potential headlining slot at UFC 331. As of August 16, 2026, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) officials have not finalized the card, but industry insiders suggest negotiations are reaching a critical phase for the Irish superstar's long-awaited return to the Octagon.
| Parameter | Current Status / Details |
|---|---|
| Event | UFC 331 (Proposed) |
| Target Date | Late 2026 |
| Primary Subject | Conor "The Notorious" McGregor |
| Potential Opponent | Michael Chandler or Dan Hooker (Rumored) |
| Weight Class | Welterweight (170 lbs) or Lightweight (155 lbs) |
| Location | Las Vegas, Nevada (Projected) |
The Long Road Back: McGregor's Octagon Hiatus and Fight Status
Conor McGregor remains the biggest box-office draw in combat sports history, despite not competing since his leg injury at UFC 264 in July 2021. A scheduled comeback at UFC 303 in June 2024 fell through due to a toe injury, leaving fans waiting for his official return to action.
Throughout 2026, McGregor has teased his return via social media, showcasing intense sparring sessions and confirming his continued participation in the Drug-Free Sport International testing pool. UFC CEO Dana White has kept match-making details close to the chest, but the timeline for UFC 331 aligns perfectly with McGregor’s reported desire to fight before the end of the year.
The primary target for his return has long been Michael Chandler, who has waited patiently for the lucrative matchup. However, alternative names like Dan Hooker and Nate Diaz continue to circulate in MMA circles, keeping the combat sports community guessing.
How to Watch UFC 331 and Secure Tickets
As one of the most anticipated potential events of the year, securing access to UFC 331 will require early planning once the promotion makes the official announcement.
- Pay-Per-View Access: In the United States, the main card will stream exclusively on ESPN+ Pay-Per-View. Viewers in the United Kingdom can catch the action on TNT Sports, while Australian fans can access the fight via Main Event and Kayo Sports.
- Ticket Availability: Once the date and venue are locked in, tickets will be sold through major platforms like Ticketmaster. Fans are highly encouraged to sign up for the UFC Fight Club presale to secure tickets before they open to the general public.
- Early Prelims: The early preliminary card will stream live globally on UFC Fight Pass, the promotion's proprietary streaming platform.
Every Performance Of Conor McGregor's UFC Career, Ranked
The Welterweight Landscape and McGregor’s 2026 Campaign
A return at UFC 331 would shake up the UFC welterweight and lightweight landscapes. While McGregor has expressed interest in fighting for a third championship belt, the division has evolved rapidly during his absence.
- The Welterweight Picture: The 170-pound division is currently highly competitive, making a tune-up fight crucial for the former double-champion.
- The Chandler Saga: Completing the rivalry established during The Ultimate Fighter remains the most logical sporting narrative.
- The BMF Title: Speculation persists that the UFC could create a special "BMF" matchup to maximize the pay-per-view draw of McGregor's return.
UFC matchmakers are expected to clarify the main event of UFC 331 in the coming weeks. For now, the fight game remains on high alert as the industry awaits the return of its most polarizing figure.
