Conor McGregor is already looking past the Octagon. Until now, it was only speculated that after his UFC contract ends, he would transition to bare-knuckle boxing, which he now co-owns. Recently, BKFC President David Feldman also hinted that the “Notorious” star is highly focused on making that move once his current UFC deal expires.
However, some doubt remains since his popularity in the UFC is sky-high, with many fans still waiting to see a proper comeback following his wildcard, injury-shortened performance at UFC 329. Amid this speculation, the former two-division champion made it official himself, stating that he cannot wait to launch this new chapter of his combat sports career.
Conor McGregor Excited to Be Free From UFC Contract
McGregor is currently targeting a return window between April and July 2027 to fulfill the last contractual obligation on his deal. His UFC contract officially sits at a single remaining fight. Once that final UFC obligation is met, McGregor will enter free agency. He is already excited to transition to bare-knuckle boxing immediately after his release.
“Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship is unstoppable at the moment,” McGregor exclaimed. “What a few months we’ve had. God bless it, God bless true fighting. I can’t wait to do it. One more to go and the Mac Daddy is free.”
🚨 Conor McGregor says he can’t wait until he is “free” from his UFC contract so he can fight in bare knuckle boxing 👀
“I can’t wait to do [bare knuckle]. One more [fight] to go and the Mac Daddy is free.” pic.twitter.com/irR2KJJl7B
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) September 12, 2026
He has spent over a decade as one of the biggest superstars and entertainers in UFC history. After breaking his leg in 2021, a long recovery alongside drug-testing compliance kept “The Notorious” sidelined for five full years.
Unfortunately, his highly anticipated return ended almost immediately when he tore his ACL and meniscus attempting a kick in the opening seconds against Max Holloway at UFC 329. Referee Mike Beltran waved the fight off at 1:09 of the first round, handing Holloway a TKO victory.
Following successful knee surgery, the 38-year-old Irishman faces a long rehabilitation process, but his physical condition looks impressive to physicians given the swift progress of his recovery.
Why Bare Knuckle is Conor McGregor’s Best Next Move
Conor McGregor became a part-owner of BKFC in April 2024 when his company, McGregor Sports and Entertainment, acquired a minority stake in the promotion. He now operates as a principal partner alongside David Feldman, utilizing his global star power to elevate fighter purses and expand international events.
Feldman even promised he would “bet the house” on McGregor fighting for the promotion once his final UFC obligations are safely met. In fact, they’re already dreaming of a massive debut at Croke Park in Dublin in front of 80,000 screaming Irish fans.
McGregor is the kind of guy who completely changes the game just by showing up. Having him involved is a cheat code for the promotion, drawing in huge crowds and bringing in insane revenue.
However, “The Notorious” hasn’t officially secured a victory since 2020. If he wants to transition seamlessly with support from the community, winning his “last dance” in the UFC would be the best possible gift for his fans.
