One of the most unprecedented events in combat sports history will happen next year, as a UFC fight card taking place on White House property is currently being planned. The event was onceived as a centerpiece for America’s 250th anniversary as a country and spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump. During an address at the Norfolk, VA, naval station earlier this month, Trump claimed that the card would take place during his birthday in June.

Amidst the planning, Conor McGregor has thrown his hat into the ring, promising his return to the Octagon for the first time since a devastating leg injury in July 2021. However, this grand plan recently encountered a major hurdle as the MMA icon received an 18-month suspension from the UFC’s anti-doping program.

UFC President and CEO Dana White was directly confronted with the question of how McGregor’s suspension impacts the planned White House card during a press conference for Dana White’s Contender Series.

“We’re not even looking at the White House card till February. We have literally not talked about one fight on the White House card yet,” White responded. “We won’t even start until February. And then, whether he’s available or not, talk to [Jeff] Novitzky about that.”

Watch the full press conference here:

In his response, White referred to Jeff Novitsky, the UFC’s Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance, who oversees the organization’s anti-doping efforts.

Because the suspension was retroactive to September 2024, McGregor’s suspension will end in March 2026. This provides a clear, albeit tight, three-month window for McGregor to complete a full training camp and final preparations after his eligibility is restored.

Since McGregor recently dropped his political aspirations, withdrawing his bid as Ireland’s president, now his full focus can be on returning to UFC competition. He has even publicly stated his intention to face Michael Chandler, his former opponent coach on the UFC reality show, “The Ultimate Fighter.”

While the McGregor saga unfolds, Dana White and the UFC are operating on the principle that the White House event is a monumental occasion that transcends any single athlete, no matter how much star power they may have. Other major stars, most notably former champion Jon Jones, have also expressed strong interest in competing on the card, though White has suggested in the past that his chances are slim.

Jon JonesJon Jones / Getty Images

As it stands, Conor McGregor is officially sidelined until March 20, 2026, and the White House event is targeted for June of that year. In theory, the timeline works. Once February comes around and the card starts to take shape, the question will be asked again, and the media will have a more solid idea whether or not McGregor is actually returning to the Octagon. 

For McGregor fans and for the UFC, the hope is that this calculated gamble pays off. If all goes according to plan and no further speed bumps arise, this could be one of the most-watched comebacks in sports history on one of its most unique stages.