Conor McGregor has been suspended from the UFC for 18 months after missing multiple drugs tests, the organization confirmed on Tuesday. The sanction follows violations of the UFC’s anti-doping rules during 2024.
According to the Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) agency, McGregor missed three scheduled drugs tests on June 13, September 19, and September 20 last year. The enforcement body stated that missing these biological sample collections constituted a breach of the UFC’s anti-doping policy.
The 18-month suspension has been backdated to September 20, 2024, meaning McGregor will be eligible to return to competition on March 20, 2026. Normally, missing such tests results in a 24-month ban, but the duration was reduced due to McGregor’s cooperation and the circumstances of his case.
CSAD said McGregor “fully cooperated” with their investigation and provided detailed information explaining why he missed the drugs tests. The Irish fighter was recovering from injury at the time and was not preparing for any active fights. UFC officials confirmed that McGregor accepted responsibility for his missed tests.
Under UFC rules, athletes must provide accurate information about their whereabouts to allow for random drug testing. Failure to comply can result in suspensions or other penalties under the anti-doping policy.
McGregor, 37, has not fought since July 2021, when he suffered a broken leg in his match against Dustin Poirier. Despite his absence from the octagon, he has continued to make headlines for legal controversies and public appearances.
Earlier this year, McGregor claimed he would fight Michael Chandler at a special event at the White House in 2026, but UFC President Dana White denied any official agreement. McGregor has also faced legal issues in Ireland and the U.S. related to past allegations of assault and sexual misconduct, all of which he denies.
The suspension marks another setback for the former champion, raising uncertainty about his future in professional mixed martial arts.
In other news read more about: Conor McGregor’s Highly Anticipated UFC Comeback After 2.5-Years
