Follow usConor McGregor’s long-awaited UFC comeback may not happen unless he rediscovers the mentality that made him a global superstar, said former training partner Artem Lobov.
McGregor hasn’t stepped into the Octagon since his crushing defeat to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. His planned 2023 return against Michael Chandler fell apart after an injury in training camp, and despite repeated teases, the Irishman has yet to make his comeback.
Still, McGregor remains intent on featuring in UFC’s historic White House event scheduled for June 2026, even naming his opponent ahead of time as Dana White looks to build “the greatest card of all time.”
Lobov, however, isn’t convinced. The Russian-born fighter, who resumes his MMA career at PFL Champions Series 3 in Dubai on October 3, believes McGregor’s current mindset is holding him back. “So, if it’s the Conor that we see now, no chance! This fight is not happening. And it shouldn’t even be happening because he’s not in the right mindset,” Lobov told SPORTbible.
Instead, Lobov says the only way McGregor fights again is if the “old Conor” returns. “I want to see the return of the old Conor,” Lobov explained. “The Conor that walked into fight [Chad] Mendes with both legs messed up. That camp was a rehab camp. Opponent changed, knee gone… who cares?! He walked in there and won. He’s a winner. He’s a champ.”
Dana White confirms limited fans capacity for the UFC event at the White House next summer 
Ronda Rousey hints possible MMA comeback 
Alexander Valkonovski says Murphy fight is a ‘no brainer’ 
