Conor McGregor`s time in the UFC octagon might be over, and according to UFC veteran Matt Brown, this shouldn`t come as a shock.
McGregor, a former UFC champion, was scheduled to fight Michael Chandler at UFC 303. However, the highly anticipated bout was cancelled after McGregor sustained an injury and had to withdraw.
While there`s no rescheduled date for the McGregor-Chandler fight, Chael Sonnen has expressed skepticism about the injury being the real reason for McGregor`s withdrawal.
Coupled with McGregor`s hinted political aspirations, the possibility of him permanently retiring from professional fighting and not returning to the octagon seems increasingly likely.
Drama and intrigue often surround the Irish fighter, but Matt Brown, a respected figure in UFC, states he is far from surprised by McGregor`s potential departure from the sport.
Matt Brown Says McGregor`s Retirement Is No Surprise
Although many fans might be surprised by the prospect of McGregor retiring, Matt Brown, a UFC legend himself, saw it coming.
Brown reminded audiences that McGregor had publicly stated his intentions years ago – to enter the sport, make substantial money, and then leave.
Speaking on the “Fighter vs. Writer” podcast, Brown explained,
“He told us what he was going to do about a decade ago. Remember him saying, `I`m going to come in, take over, make money, and get the f*** out`?”
“He mentioned that this sport is brutal and it’s not something to stay in for too long. He told us this maybe 8 or 10 years back. He literally told us his plan, and he’s following through with it.”
“This isn`t surprising at all. He enjoys being in the spotlight, staying relevant, and sharing his opinions. He’s kept himself in the public eye, and we’ve all paid attention and continue to discuss him,” Brown added.
“He’s done a good job playing the media game. I’ve said before, I think he’s done with fighting. He’s just confirming what many of us already suspected.”
McGregor`s planned comeback was set for UFC 303, but his last fight in the Octagon was in 2021, where he suffered consecutive defeats against Dustin Poirier.
Political Ambitions Might Not Rule Out Fighting Career Just Yet
Despite withdrawing from the Chandler fight and hinting at a political career, McGregor has not completely dismissed the idea of fighting in the UFC again.
The former UFC Champion has expressed interest in running for President of Ireland and has been seen increasing his political activity, including meeting with Donald Trump.
McGregor has stated his ambition to be President of Ireland while still being an active UFC fighter, a feat never before accomplished.
“And now entering the octagon: The Notorious, the President of Ireland, Conor McGregor! Of course. Are you crazy?
“That’s part of why I want to do it. “To be announced as the President of Ireland, having a fight.”
The next Irish Presidential election is scheduled for November 2025, giving McGregor a limited time frame to build support for his potential campaign.
