Conor McGregor Competes in Surprise Three-Round Boxing Match in Ireland

Conor McGregor made a surprise return to the boxing ring on Friday, stepping through the ropes for an exhibition bout.

Speculation about the former two-division UFC champion returning to the octagon has been growing in recent weeks, and seeing McGregor compete in front of a crowd was something fans had not witnessed since his devastating leg injury in his 2021 loss to Dustin Poirier.

The exhibition match took place at Crumlin Boxing Club in Dublin, Ireland, during the venue’s Good Friday event, according to Irish Boxing. Wearing protective gear, McGregor competed in a three-round contest and received two standing eight-counts during the fight.

McGregor has only fought once as a professional boxer, facing undefeated legend Floyd Mayweather in their blockbuster 2017 showdown. The Irishman was stopped by TKO in the 10th round.

“The Notorious” is expected to return to the UFC this summer. He has been linked to International Fight Week, with Max Holloway frequently mentioned as a potential opponent. However, UFC CEO Dana White recently said that there is still plenty to negotiate before anything becomes official.