Conor McGregor has publicly stated that for his eagerly awaited return to the octagon next year, he is engaging in negotiations directly with former President Donald Trump and his administration, rather than with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) itself.
McGregor, widely recognized as the biggest star in mixed martial arts history, has been sidelined from active competition since sustaining a severe leg injury against Dustin Poirier in mid-2021. Typically, negotiations for his fights are conducted between his management team, led by Audie Attar of Paradigm Sports, and the UFC organization.
However, with his comeback bout potentially slated for an extraordinary UFC event at the White House, McGregor claims that discussions are unfolding at an unprecedented governmental level. This would mean bypassing traditional UFC leadership, such as Dana White and Hunter Campbell, for what is anticipated to be the most significant event in the promotion`s history.
McGregor Claims Direct Negotiations with Trump for UFC Return
While attending BKFC 81 in Manchester, McGregor addressed inquiries regarding his potential participation in the rumored UFC White House card. He clarified that his negotiations, which he recently took to social media, specifying a $200 million demand covering his fight purse and visas for his friends and family, are not with the UFC.
“I’m not negotiating with the UFC on behalf of myself for this fight like usual,” McGregor told reporter Ayman Khan. “I am negotiating with the United States of America on behalf of Ireland for this fight, so it is a peculiar one. But [President Donald] Trump, the administration have been fully supportive and backing and I cannot wait to put on a show.”
$200 Million Price Tag for White House Event
McGregor`s return to the fight game is certainly not expected to be inexpensive. He recently communicated directly to President Trump via social media, indicating his requirement for a $200 million package to make his first appearance since his leg injury at UFC 264 in July 2021.
The 37-year-old superstar is seeking a $100 million flat fee to headline this once-in-a-lifetime UFC spectacle. The remaining portion of his demanded package comprises 100 “Golden Card” visas, each reportedly valued at $1 million, which grant their holders residency status in the United States.
On Thursday morning, McGregor tweeted: “100 million to fight at the White House along with 100 U.S `Golden Visas` for myself and family and friends.”
