McGregor reappears, takes first doping test in ten months and returns to the UFC radar for 2026

Conor McGregor He is a former UFC champion. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Conor McGregor has once again been a buzz behind the scenes at the UFC. The former featherweight (up to 65,7 kg) and lightweight (up to 70,3 kg) champion confirmed this week that he underwent his first drug test in ten months. The Irishman has returned to the drug control program Drug Free Sport International (DFSI), the new body responsible for doping tests on Ultimate athletes, published last Tuesday (29).

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The test marks a decisive step toward his long-rumored return to the Octagon. Under current rules, McGregor must complete a six-month period of random testing before being cleared to compete again.

This would mean the Irishman would become eligible from March 2025 – which would make him a natural candidate to be part of the UFC's celebratory card scheduled for July of next year, possibly at a special event at the White House in the United States.

First anti-doping test of Conor McGregor

VERY BACK https://t.co/cBKuDLWwcx pic.twitter.com/VQpqflv6Cg

— Infinity MMA (@Infinity_MMA) July 30, 2025

McGregor's controversial post

As usual, the announcement didn't go unnoticed. McGregor shared videos and photos on social media, showing off a bandage and performing breathing exercises to the tune of Black Sabbath's "Changes."

"I had my first blood test, that's why I have a bandage on my shoulder. I'm very happy and in good shape," the Irishman wrote.

McGregor has not seen action since July 2021, when he suffered a broken leg during the trilogy match against Dustin poirier. Since then, there have been three years of speculation, negotiations and postponements.

The last attempt to return would be against Michael chandler, at UFC 303, in June of this year, but the fight ended up being canceled after Conor claimed to have suffered a broken toe.