Conor McGregor has hinted that his combat sports career could continue beyond the UFC, with the former two-division champion expressing a strong interest in competing in bare-knuckle fighting.
McGregor (22-7 MMA, 10-5 UFC) is currently recovering from ACL surgery after suffering a serious knee injury during his comeback bout against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in July. The fight marked his first Octagon appearance in five years, following the leg fracture he sustained against Dustin Poirier in July 2021.
Although “The Notorious” has one fight remaining on his UFC contract, he appears to have already considered his next move. The BKFC co-owner recently discussed his fascination with the promotion’s brutal fighting style and suggested he could eventually step inside its ring.
Conor McGregor Eyes Bare-Knuckle Fighting After Final UFC Fight
Speaking about the prospect of competing in bare-knuckle fighting, McGregor highlighted the excitement and danger associated with the sport.
I really enjoy bareknuckle fighting,” McGregor told Ahmad Hamilson. “I don’t think there’s any chance of a boring fight in bareknuckle. Now, I am a mixed martial artist. Maybe I’m just saying this because I had a bad time out the last time. Good MMA, really good MMA, is hard to beat, but bareknuckle is very exciting, very dangerous and it takes more courage. I’m looking forward to a bareknuckle fight myself.
The Irishman subsequently made his intentions clearer, suggesting his final UFC appearance would mark a transition rather than the end of his combat sports career.
Big chance – big chance,” McGregor said when asked about fighting in BKFC. “I’m going to lay off my gloves in that octagon for my final UFC contract, but not to retire – to announce bareknuckle. Teeth come and go, just like a nose. It means nothing.
The potential move would not come as a complete surprise. “The Notorious” acquired an ownership stake in BKFC in 2024 and has repeatedly expressed interest in competing under the promotion’s rules.
McGregor is expected to make his final UFC appearance next summer, although his opponent has yet to be confirmed. A potential rematch with Holloway remains an intriguing possibility, especially given how their latest encounter ended prematurely.
