‘I’ve been kept from my living’

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia – Conor McGregor witnessed an exhilarating boxing match between Tyson Fury and Francis Ngannou on Saturday, and it seems the competitive fire within him has been reignited.

After being readmitted into the UFC drug-testing pool, McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) is slated to make his comeback in April. The Irish fighter expressed his eagerness to get back in the Octagon and start building his career again.

During the event’s red carpet, McGregor spoke to MMA Junkie and other reporters about his frustrations surrounding his almost three-year hiatus and the recent delays caused by the UFC’s partnership with the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), which is coming to an end this year.

McGregor stated, “I’ve suffered from being away from my livelihood for nearly three years now. It’s been a trying time for me. I’m still recovering from an injury and a loss. Have you heard what Alexander Volkanovski said? I can relate. I need to return to my passion. This is my job, and it’s beyond frustrating. I just want a date. Give me the date so I can get back in there.”

The 35-year-old McGregor last fought in July 2021 at UFC 264, where he suffered a devastating leg injury against Dustin Poirier. The injury required surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation period, during which McGregor was removed from the USADA testing pool, sparking a debate about exemptions for fighters with severe injuries.

While discussing his next opponent, McGregor said, “I won’t ever say no to anyone. I just want a date. Chandler seems to be the likely choice, but it doesn’t matter to me as long as I get back in the Octagon.”

For more information about this matchup, visit MMA Junkie‘s event hub.

This story originally appeared on MMA Junkie.