Conor McGregor revealed his UFC exit strategy and future bareknuckle boxing debut during a surprise interview in Rome.
Former two-division Ultimate Fighting Championship title holder Conor McGregor outlined his future fight plans during a special appearance in Rome, Italy, on Tuesday, October 3, 2026. The Irish superstar attended the Hype Italy event to watch a combat sports card featuring bareknuckle boxing and submission grappling matches.
During a media interview at the venue, the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship co-owner discussed his upcoming transition from mixed martial arts to bareknuckle fighting once his current contract with the premier MMA organization concludes. McGregor stated that his next Octagon appearance will mark his final bout with the promotion before he officially shifts disciplines, according to information published by mmamania.
The announcement clarifies weeks of speculation regarding the timeline for the 38-year-old athlete, who is currently recovering from knee surgery following an injury sustained earlier this year. McGregor remains under contract for one final fight with the Ultimate Fighting Championship before embarking on his bareknuckle career.
Conor McGregor UFC contract and final fight plans
The 38-year-old fighter confirmed that his upcoming appearance will serve as his final contractual obligation to the mixed martial arts promotion. McGregor previously targeted International Fight Week in July 2027 for his final walk to the Octagon, though that timeline depends on his physical rehabilitation.
The former dual-weight champion tore his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus just 69 seconds into his rematch against Max Holloway at UFC 329 in July. Following successful surgery, Conor McGregor expects to remain sidelined from athletic competition until at least next summer.
Transition to bareknuckle boxing debut
When asked about his fighting future, Conor McGregor explained how he envisions his departure from mixed martial arts. He intends to leave his competition gloves inside the cage to signal his transition to bareknuckle fighting rather than retiring from combat sports entirely.
As a co-owner of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, McGregor expressed immense enthusiasm for the sport. He noted that bareknuckle bouts are extremely exciting, highly dangerous, and demand exceptional courage from competitors willing to step into the squared circle.
Timeline for bareknuckle fighting debut
While Conor McGregor did not provide a specific calendar date for his bareknuckle debut, industry expectations point toward a late 2027 arrival. BKFC President David Feldman previously stated he would back the superstar to compete for the organization once his MMA obligations conclude.
The planned sequence involves completing his final Ultimate Fighting Championship bout, ensuring he emerges without severe injuries, and subsequently making his long-awaited debut in bareknuckle boxing under the BKFC banner.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Conor McGregor have his final UFC fight?
Conor McGregor has targeted International Fight Week in July 2027 for his final Ultimate Fighting Championship appearance, depending on his recovery from knee surgery.
What injury did Conor McGregor suffer at UFC 329?
Conor McGregor tore his ACL and meniscus just 69 seconds into his UFC 329 rematch against Max Holloway in July, requiring corrective surgery.
Which organization will Conor McGregor join after the UFC?
Conor McGregor plans to transition to bareknuckle boxing and is expected to compete in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, where he is a co-owner.
How many fights remaining does Conor McGregor have on his UFC contract?
Conor McGregor has one fight remaining on his current UFC contract before he concludes his career with the mixed martial arts promotion.
