Conor McGregor, the renowned former featherweight and lightweight champion, has officially confirmed his highly anticipated return to the Octagon after a four-year hiatus. The Irish fighter, now 37, is set to face long-time rival Michael Chandler, 39, in a significant bout on the 2026 UFC White House card, scheduled for next June.

UFC chief Dana White initially unveiled plans for this unprecedented event, describing it as a "spectacle for the ages" to be held at the presidential residence. McGregor is expected to be one of several prominent stars featured on this historic card, marking his first fight since July 2021.

The clash between McGregor and Chandler has been a highly anticipated one, having been previously scheduled for UFC 303 last June. However, that bout was unfortunately cancelled just two weeks before the event when McGregor sustained a broken toe during sparring. Speaking to Fox&Friends, McGregor definitively confirmed the rescheduled fight. He expressed his excitement, stating, "The Mac is excited to get back for sure. I’m on [the White House card]. This is me. [I’m fighting] Michael Chandler. Michael Chandler and myself have done the show The Ultimate Fighter, we’ve had a good back and forth. He’s a good, tough guy.”

Michael Chandler, who has maintained a more consistent fighting schedule, last competed in April, suffering a defeat to Paddy Pimblett. Chandler has also recently alluded to the rekindling of their rivalry in an interview with MMA Fighting. He conveyed his optimism about the fight’s prospects, saying, "I think we’re closer now than we ever have been. I’ve always said if you’re a betting man, don’t put money on him necessarily coming back, but now this changes things a lot. In my heart of hearts, I think I’m fighting Conor McGregor at the White House and that sure does make a ton of sense for a multitude of reasons.” The announcement solidifies a major comeback for McGregor against a formidable opponent, setting the stage for one of the most talked-about events in recent UFC history.