Reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev has cast significant doubt on Conor McGregor’s potential comeback, suggesting the Irish superstar’s fighting days may be over. As Makhachev prepares to headline UFC 322 against Jack Della Maddalena at Madison Square Garden, he pointed to McGregor’s 1-2 record since losing to his mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov, the devastating leg injury, and ongoing anti-doping issues as evidence that “The Notorious” may never return to championship form.
“Khabib Broke His Mind”: The Psychological Impact
Makhachev didn’t mince words when assessing the root of McGregor’s decline, stating plainly that “Khabib broke his mind” during their iconic UFC 229 encounter. This psychological damage, combined with the physical toll of McGregor’s broken leg against Dustin Poirier, creates what Makhachev sees as an insurmountable barrier to a successful return.
The lightweight champion’s assessment echoes through McGregor’s recent career—just one victory in his last four Octagon appearances, with his only win coming against an ageing Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. Makhachev believes the combination of mental scars from the Nurmagomedov loss and the physical limitations from his injury has created a perfect storm that likely ends McGregor’s era as an elite competitor.
The Practical Obstacles to McGregor’s Return
Beyond the psychological factors, Makhachev highlighted several concrete challenges working against McGregor’s comeback ambitions. The Irish star remains enrolled in the UFC’s anti-doping program despite multiple missed tests and public controversies surrounding his status. Additionally, at 35 years old and with significant mileage from his boxing venture against Floyd Mayweather, the window for a competitive return is rapidly closing.
McGregor’s planned return has been repeatedly delayed, with targeted dates for 2024 coming and going without fight announcements. This pattern of postponed comebacks only reinforces Makhachev’s scepticism about whether fight fans will ever see the former two-division champion compete in the Octagon again.
Makhachev’s Own Legacy Building at UFC 322
While questioning McGregor’s future, Makhachev focuses on cementing his own legacy at the same Madison Square Garden venue where McGregor made history by capturing the lightweight title in 2016. His welterweight challenge against Jack Della Maddalena represents a bold move to become a two-division champion—an accomplishment that would further diminish McGregor’s standing in the sport’s history books.
The symbolism isn’t lost on Makhachev, who recognises that a victory at MSG could simultaneously elevate his status while pushing the McGregor era further into the past. “I’m determined to show that I am the top fighter today,” Makhachev stated, drawing a clear line between his active championship career and McGregor’s increasingly uncertain future.
The White House Event: Contrasting Timelines
Makhachev also addressed the proposed UFC event at the White House in summer 2026, noting that he would have “enough time between his fights” to potentially feature on the historic card. This stands in stark contrast to McGregor, who has positioned himself as a potential headliner for the event despite having no recent fights and no clear path back to competition.
The timeline discrepancy highlights the fundamental difference between an active champion preparing for his next challenge and a former star hoping for one more moment in the spotlight. While McGregor talks about future events, Makhachev continues to compete at the highest level, creating a clear distinction between the sport’s present and its past.
Conclusion: Changing of the Guard
Islam Makhachev’s candid assessment of Conor McGregor’s comeback chances reflects a broader shift in the MMA landscape. As a new generation of champions establishes their legacies, the stars of the previous era face increasingly long odds in their attempts to recapture past glory. For Makhachev, UFC 322 represents another step toward greatness; for McGregor, it’s another event he’ll watch from the sidelines—a symbol of a career that appears to be ending not with a bang, but with unanswered questions and fading hopes.
Makhachev on McGregor’s Comeback: FAQ
Why does Makhachev doubt McGregor can return?
He cites McGregor’s 1-2 record since losing to Khabib, the psychological impact of that defeat, his leg injury, and anti-doping issues as creating insurmountable obstacles.
What did Makhachev mean by “Khabib broke his mind”?
He believes Nurmagomedov’s dominant victory at UFC 229 caused lasting psychological damage that prevents McGregor from competing at his former elite level.
Is McGregor officially retired?
No, McGregor continues to train and discuss comeback fights, but he hasn’t competed since breaking his leg in July 2021 and has no fight currently scheduled.
How does UFC 322 factor into this narrative?
Makhachev headlines the same venue where McGregor won the lightweight title, symbolically representing the passing of the torch to a new generation.
Could McGregor still fight at the White House event?
While he’s expressed interest, Makhachev’s comments suggest the champion doubts McGregor will ever compete at that level again.
