Conor McGregor Withdraws from UFC 303 Fight with Michael Chandler Due to Injury

Conor McGregor has finally disclosed the injury that forced him to withdraw from his highly anticipated return fight against Michael Chandler at UFC 303. After a three-year hiatus from the octagon, McGregor’s comeback was derailed by a broken toe sustained during training.

The injury is particularly disappointing for McGregor, who was set to make a significant return following a severe broken leg suffered in his last fight against Dustin Poirier in 2021. The Irish fighter shared the details of his setback in an Instagram post, explaining that a lapse in concentration during a training session without full protective gear led to him striking his toe against an elbow, resulting in a clean break.

“Man we were so f*cking super ready for this fight, it is absolutely gut wrenching to take,” McGregor wrote. He lamented the financial hit, humorously mentioning his desire for a new Bugatti. “It needs a few weeks that’s it. I couldn’t justify to my team, or fans, that I make the walk hindered again. That walk has been seen.”

McGregor emphasized his commitment to returning at full strength. “This next walk has got to be, and it will be, 100 percent Conor McGregor. The fans deserve it and we are getting close. A slight lapse in concentration and a nuisance of an injury was picked up. That’s it. Take the lesson and move forward. I will get this back. I’ve got to. I’ve got two fights left on my contract. I’ve got Bugattis and more yachts on my mind. I’m coming to shine.”

Despite the setback, McGregor assured fans of his return, albeit without confirming whether Chandler will still be his opponent. “Cause I still got yachts and Bentleys and mansions and all the rest. Ya know yaself. But ya get me, I’ll be back. See ya’s soon. See ya at the top. Chandler or not.”

The announcement comes after intense speculation about McGregor’s status for UFC 303. Rumors about his potential withdrawal circulated following the sudden cancellation of a pre-fight press conference in Ireland on June 2. McGregor’s absence from the press event sparked concerns about his readiness to compete.

To address any doubts, McGregor posted a photo of his injured toe on Twitter, simultaneously taking a jab at Chael Sonnen. Sonnen had claimed that McGregor withdrew due to a stint in rehab, a rumor McGregor debunked with his graphic evidence.

McGregor’s injury forced the UFC to revise their plans for the June 29 card, removing Chandler from the lineup as well. Chandler, who has not fought since November 2022, expressed his preference to wait for the opportunity to fight McGregor rather than facing a different opponent.

While Chandler remains committed to the matchup, McGregor appears more focused on his overall return to fighting. With two fights left on his contract, McGregor is determined to come back stronger, regardless of who stands across the octagon from him.