Mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor has been suspended for 18 months after failing to comply with anti-doping testing rules, authorities confirmed on Tuesday.
Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) announced that the 37-year-old Irish fighter missed three drug tests between June and September last year, violating the UFC’s “whereabouts” policy. McGregor accepted the suspension, cooperated with the investigation, and provided information explaining his absences.
“Despite these mitigating factors, accurate whereabouts filings and the ability to conduct unannounced testing are essential,” CSAD said in a statement.
The former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion’s ban was reduced from two years to 18 months and backdated to September 2024, making him eligible to return to competition by March 2026.
McGregor has hinted at a comeback fight next year, possibly at a UFC event reportedly planned at the White House in June 2026, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump’s birthday. However, UFC president Dana White clarified that no bouts have been confirmed yet.
