Jake Paul explains why he believes the UFC doesn't want Conor McGregor in action in 2024

Dana White and Conor McGregor at a UFC event (Photo: Reproduction/Instagram)

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Most popular name in MMA history, Conor McGregor has been away from the octagon for more than three years, since his defeat to Dustin poirier in July 2021, when he suffered a serious leg injury. The Irishman was close to returning in June this year, when he was due to face Michael chandler No. UFC 303, but a toe injury thwarted the plans. In the opinion of Jake Paul, however, it is part of the UFC's plans that its biggest star will not be in action for the rest of 2024.

In a recent edition of his podcast, in which he received Francis Ngannou as a guest, the YouTuber and boxer claimed that the UFC does not want Conor in action in the coming months to gain 'bargaining power' in negotiations to renew broadcast contracts.

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“Conor has two fights left on his contract, but the UFC is trying to renew the broadcast deals. Let’s say they’re negotiating with ESPN, they’re trying to renew the contract and get the most money. Part of that negotiation is, ‘Hey, we have Conor McGregor “For two more fights.’ If he fought now, that wouldn’t be part of the negotiation anymore. They would have Conor for just one more fight. That’s why he’s not fighting. That’s what they do with fighters. Every contract is different, but sometimes you don’t want to win because you’re going to be locked in for three more fights. They have these triggers in the contracts as well. You’re just a piece on the board,” Paul explained.

The fact is that the future of Conor McGregor in the UFC is uncertain at the moment. Recently, Dana White stated that the 'Notorious' would not return in 2024, but the Irishman made a point of taking to social media to refute the statement and guarantee that he intends to return in December.