TLDR
- Conor McGregor wants to fight Islam Makhachev for the UFC welterweight championship at 170 pounds
- McGregor aims to become the UFC’s first three-weight world champion with a third divisional title
- The Irish fighter framed the potential bout as a ‘triple crown’ achievement
- McGregor posted a cryptic White House update that sparked speculation about his comeback plans
- His primary goal now centers on securing a 170-pound title shot rather than settling personal rivalries
Conor McGregor has publicly declared his intention to challenge Islam Makhachev for the UFC welterweight championship. The Irish fighter is targeting a 170-pound title shot as he plans his return to competition.
McGregor already holds two UFC divisional titles from his career. He won the featherweight belt in 2015 and captured the lightweight championship in 2016.
The former champion now wants to add a welterweight title to his collection. If successful, he would become the first fighter in UFC history to win world championships in three different weight classes.
Makhachev Represents New Challenge
Islam Makhachev currently holds the UFC welterweight championship. The Dagestani fighter has established himself as a dominant force in the division.
McGregor described his goal as achieving a ‘triple crown’ by defeating Makhachev. He stated that claiming a historic third belt drives his motivation for this fight.
The Irish star emphasized that his pursuit is about making history rather than personal conflict. McGregor made it clear that the welterweight title itself is his primary target.
According to reports from multiple MMA outlets, McGregor has made a 170-pound title shot his main focus. He has been mapping out a possible return to competition centered on this goal.
McGregor has not fought in the UFC since suffering a leg injury in July 2021. His last bout ended in a doctor’s stoppage against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264.
White House Post Sparks Questions
The announcement about Makhachev came alongside a cryptic social media post from McGregor. He shared an update suggesting a UFC-related visit to the White House.
The White House reference has prompted widespread speculation among fans and media members. Many have questioned what the post means for his actual comeback timeline.
McGregor did not provide details about the nature of the potential White House visit. He also has not announced a specific date for his return to the octagon.
The combination of the Makhachev callout and White House mention has created confusion about his plans. Some observers wonder if McGregor is seriously pursuing a fight or engaging in promotion.
McGregor previously competed at welterweight several times during his UFC career. He fought Nate Diaz twice at 170 pounds, splitting those two bouts.
The Irish fighter also faced Donald Cerrone at welterweight in January 2020. McGregor won that fight by first-round knockout in his last victory inside the octagon.
Makhachev has not publicly responded to McGregor’s challenge. The welterweight champion recently defended his title and has other potential contenders in line.
McGregor framed the potential bout as his chance to cement his legacy in UFC history. He stated that a 170-pound title shot is now his primary goal as he considers his next move in mixed martial arts.
