Former two-weight UFC champion Conor McGregor has once again sparked speculation about a potential return to fighting later this year, following a cryptic message posted on social media this week. The Irish MMA star issued a blunt call to the promotion and its executives, writing, “Let’s get this show started @ufc,” seemingly signaling his readiness to activate at least one of his remaining contracted bouts.

McGregor, who has been absent from competitive fighting since 2021, has mostly been linked to political ambitions in his native Republic of Ireland earlier this year rather than a comeback to the Octagon. However, his recent social media activity has reignited hopes among fans and analysts that the 36-year-old may still be eyeing a return to the sport that made him a global superstar.

His last fight, a rubber match trilogy bout against former interim champion Dustin Poirier, ended in a first-round doctor’s stoppage due to a gruesome fracture to his left tibia and fibula. This injury forced McGregor out of action for a prolonged period. Since then, he has not stepped back into any combat sports ring or cage, making his comeback uncertain.

Notably, McGregor had been scheduled to fight as recently as last summer during International Fight Week. He was booked to headline UFC 303 against rival Michael Chandler at the welterweight limit. However, he withdrew from the fight citing a fractured toe on the same leg that had been severely injured against Poirier, prolonging his absence from active competition.

Despite his current cryptic message suggesting a possible return, McGregor had made a more definitive statement about his future in combat sports earlier this year. Following a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) event in North America, he hinted that he might be moving on from MMA, expressing contentment with what he has already accomplished inside the Octagon.

In a post-fight press conference, McGregor revealed that he had two fights remaining on his UFC contract and was in negotiations. However, he also spoke candidly about his recent visit to the White House and his growing interest in serving his country politically. “My heart bleeds for my country right now,” he said, hinting at a deeper calling beyond fighting.

He further stated, “There’s something else for me that’s in my gut right now and that’s kind of where I’m going. So, we’ll see. Greatness does not rush.” This statement left fans and commentators debating whether McGregor’s future lies inside the cage or on a political stage.

Adding intrigue to the mix, McGregor mentioned an opportunity or deal to fight in a unique location—Alcatraz—although details remain scarce. This notion reflects his flair for dramatic and unconventional fight promotions, something that has characterized his career.

Throughout his career, McGregor has been known for his bold personality, trash talk, and ability to captivate audiences both inside and outside the cage. While speculation about his return has ebbed and flowed since his last fight, his recent social media plea suggests that he may be ready to rekindle his fighting career, at least for one more showdown.

However, McGregor’s path back to competition is not without hurdles. His injuries have been severe, and questions about his physical readiness persist. Additionally, his focus on political ambitions introduces an element of uncertainty regarding his availability and commitment to the sport.

Adding to the chatter, Joe Rogan recently claimed that McGregor may not return to UFC competition due to his alleged cocaine use, a controversial statement that further complicates the narrative surrounding the Irish fighter’s future.

Regardless of these challenges, McGregor remains one of the most marketable and influential figures in MMA history. His ability to generate buzz and draw attention is unmatched, and any sign of a comeback tends to send waves through the fighting world.

Fans are now left waiting to see whether the “come get me” message is a genuine call to action or simply another chapter in the enigmatic career of one of MMA’s most polarizing figures. With two fights still on his contract, the possibility remains that McGregor will step back into the Octagon, delivering more of the explosive performances that made him a two-division champion.

Until then, speculation and anticipation will continue to swirl as the fight world watches closely for any further developments from the Irish superstar, whose legacy is as much about his persona as his prowess inside the cage.