Conor McGregor hints at ‘obstacles’ behind cancelled UFC 303 press conference

McGregor and opponent Michael Chandler were set to share a stage in Dublin on Monday, but the event was cancelled just hours in advance

Alex Pattle
Combat Sports Correspondent
Tuesday 04 June 2024 11:16 BST
Comments
Conor McGregor announces UFC return

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Conor McGregor offered a vague explanation for the cancellation of his press conference on Monday, as fans were left disappointed on short notice.

McGregor and Michael Chandler, whom he is set to fight in the main event of UFC 303 on 29 June, were due to share a stage in Dublin on Monday (3 June). However, the event was postponed on short notice.

The UFC offered no explanation for the postponement, and no new date, but McGregor later took to social media to address the situation.

“In consultation with the UFC, today’s press conference was cancelled due to a series of obstacles outside of our control,” wrote the Irishman, 35.

“I apologize to my Irish fans, and fans around the world, for the inconvenience and appreciate all your passion and support. I can’t wait to put on the greatest all-time show in the Octagon.”

Many fans initially assumed that McGregor was responsible for the postponement of the press conference. One wrote on X, “What’s McGregor done now?” while another said, “What did he do lmao.” “Conor pulled out, didn’t he?” asked one user, while others wrote, “McGregor pulling out?” and “Knew this was all too good to be true man,” seemingly referring to UFC 303 itself.

While it is unclear why the press conference was postponed, McGregor did withdraw from a press conference in 2016, ahead of his rematch with Nate Diaz.

Monday’s postponement came a week after fans expressed concern about McGregor’s preparation for the fight with Chandler, after the former champion was filmed partying in Dublin.

McGregor has not fought since breaking his leg in July 2021, during his second straight loss to Dustin Poirier. McGregor was knocked out by the American six months earlier.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in