Conor McGregor's ‘Spiritual Journey' – But Is It Too Late?

Conor McGregor has declared he has been "saved" and "healed," claiming a powerful "spiritual journey" has reawakened his competitive spirit ahead of a potential UFC return. 

McGregor is one of the UFC’s most iconic fighters, becoming a two-weight champion during his prime years. However, his career has stagnated of late, having not made an appearance since 2021. That was a stoppage loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264, where he suffered a broken leg. That took his record to three defeats from his last four, with his last win coming against Donald Cerrone in 2020.

McGregor’s plans to return have also suffered. A UFC 303 fight against Michael Chandler was called off after The Notorious withdrew with a broken toe. Outside of the Octagon, things have also not been easy. Conor was found liable for a civil sexual assault lawsuit filed by Nikita Hand, where he was ordered to pay her damages. 

McGregor Reacts

However, Conor has consistently said he wants to fight on the UFC White House event in June 2026. The Irishman has re-entered the testing pool, with a new mindset. Conor spoke at a presser for BKFC 83, where he detailed his positive outlook.

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"I am not here just by chance. There is a higher power, God, that dictates my journey and all of our journeys, and I live my life by God’s word. Since around that time that you mentioned at the last event, I’ve engaged on a spiritual journey, and I’m saved. I’m saved. I am healed…On the back of that, the world is in for a treat.

"My competitive spark that was once in my heart is now a roaring blaze. So I’m very excited. “I envy these [BKFC] men up here on this dais. They’re right about to make weight, and they’re to go in and enjoy and entertain and do what they were called to do, as am I called to do it—I’m eager to get back. And right now, I had to dial myself in and go inward. I’m very, very excited to combat my own self," McGregor said 

The Reality

Credit: John Locher / Associated Press

The most significant barrier to a triumphant return is the ring rust. His recent win was a 40-second victory over a fading Donald Cerrone in 2020. This prolonged layoff is lethal at the elite level of the sport. There has also been a drop in his cardio and defensive durability following his 2017 boxing match with Floyd Mayweather.

Credit: MMA Junkie

McGregor’s downfall also stems from achieving generational wealth very early in his career. He is now the co-owner of BKFC, an owner of a drinks brand, and a global celebrity. He no longer needs to fight for money, which contrasts sharply with the ambition of every contender aiming for his status. The nature of his injury (a broken leg) and the subsequent withdrawal (a broken toe) suggest a fragility in his commitment and body that a "spiritual journey" cannot fix. The gap between his aspirations and his recent results is perhaps too wide.

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