Islam Makhachev Takes a Dig at Conor McGregor’s UFC Comeback Aspirations: “Is Already a Fantasy”

Islam Makhachev, the reigning UFC Lightweight Champion, recently took a shot at Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated comeback to the Octagon. McGregor, who has been away from the cage since his injury loss to Dustin Poirier in 2021, has been hinting at a return. However, Makhachev seems skeptical about the Irish superstar’s prospects, labeling his comeback as nothing more than a “fantasy.”

McGregor has been vocal on social media, frequently teasing fans about his return to the UFC. With promises of regaining the championship glory, he has kept the MMA community buzzing. However, Makhachev, one of the most dominant forces in the lightweight division, appears unimpressed with McGregor’s declarations. In a recent interview, Makhachev dismissed the idea of McGregor making a successful comeback, stating, “It’s already a fantasy.”

The skepticism stems from McGregor’s prolonged absence and the ever-evolving nature of the UFC’s lightweight division. Makhachev, who has been on a winning streak, believes that McGregor’s time has passed. “The division has moved on,” Makhachev remarked. “There are fighters who have worked hard, evolved, and proven themselves. McGregor is living in the past if he thinks he can just step back in and dominate.”

Conor McGregor’s last victory in the UFC dates back to January 2020, when he defeated Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone in a welterweight bout. Since then, he has been more of a media personality than an active fighter, often making headlines for his social media rants rather than his performances in the Octagon. Makhachev’s comments reflect the growing sentiment that McGregor may have become more of a celebrity than a legitimate contender.

Makhachev’s remarks have stirred the pot in the MMA community, prompting debate on whether McGregor can still be a threat in the lightweight division. While McGregor’s loyal fanbase remains hopeful for his return to form, fighters like Makhachev are not buying into the hype. They see the division as a battleground for active and hungry fighters, not for those chasing the ghosts of their former glory.

As the lightweight division continues to be one of the most competitive landscapes in the UFC, the question remains: Can Conor McGregor reclaim his status, or is Makhachev right in saying that it’s just a fantasy? Only time will tell if the “Notorious” one can silence his critics and prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. Until then, the war of words between these two UFC stars adds another layer of intrigue to the ever-dramatic world of mixed martial arts.