While the UFC has remained tight-lipped on details surrounding its live event at the White House next year, one major detail may have just been revealed.
Long-time MMA star Conor McGregor told Fox News' Sean Hannity on Wednesday night that he'll be making his much-anticipated return for the historic card set for summer 2026.
"Done deal, signed, delivered," the former two-division UFC champ said. "It ain't a negotiation, it's a done deal, signed, delivered. McGregor will compete in the White House for America's 250th birthday."
Dana White has yet to confirm McGregor's breaking news, but the Irishman added that he and the UFC president are "in constant communication, we've done incredible business together. I'm the highest-generating fighter of all time in the Ultimate Fighting Championship."
McGregor's interest in being part of what will be the first professional sports event staged at the United States presidential residence has been no secret, describing his efforts as a "six-month operation" to prepare for his return.
"The phone will not be answered," the 37-year-old said when describing the isolation he'll undergo during his training camp. "I'm under no illusion about what lies ahead of me in my preparation ... that's my focus right now, I'm just eager to climb the steps into being ready for my return. There's a lot at stake, and I'm very excited for my opportunity."
It's been over four years since McGregor last entered a UFC octagon following back-to-back losses against Dustin Poirier — the second of which ended abruptly after McGregor broke his leg in the cage.
"The Notorious" was set to make his return last year in a bout against Michael Chandler in his native Ireland, but had to withdraw due to a toe injury just weeks out from the main event matchup. McGregor holds a record of 22-6-0 as a pro, but has lost three of his last four UFC fights — all three defeats coming by early stoppage.
Despite his lengthy absence, McGregor remains one of the biggest draws in MMA, having headlined the five highest-selling UFC PPV events all-time. And although McGregor didn't divulge who he might face in his comeback bout, taking on Chandler, a fan favourite who'd be competing on home soil, would presumably garner plenty of attention.
As for the UFC's White House card as a whole, little is known thus far, aside from the fact that it's happening. White made the news official at the end of August, saying that the promotion "got it done" and that more details would follow.
Meanwhile, McGregor hasn't been the only UFC icon to express his interest in the event. Jon Jones, despite announcing his retirement earlier this year, re-entered the UFC's drug testing pool and has since indicated he wishes to compete at the White House next summer.
1:20