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Conor McGregor Boxes in Dublin Exhibition Ahead of Reported July UFC Return

The showcase signaled momentum toward a possible International Fight Week main event still unannounced.

Overview

  • McGregor, who boxed in a three-round charity bout Friday in Dublin, faced local amateur Barry Nolan at his old Crumlin Boxing Club with reports of standing eight counts in rounds two and three.
  • Footage showed him mixing sharp shots with showmanship in protective gear during a measured-paced exhibition that cost local fans about €10 to attend.
  • The appearance marked his first live competitive outing since his 2021 leg break against Dustin Poirier after a planned 2024 return versus Michael Chandler fell through when he broke a toe in sparring.
  • Outlets continue to report he is lined up for July 11 at T-Mobile Arena during UFC International Fight Week, though the UFC has not announced the bout and an opponent has not been named.
  • Reaction to the exhibition was split, with some praising his control and others calling him slow, as speculation grows about a comeback that would be a major draw for the UFC’s new Paramount+ streaming model.