UFC commentator Joe Rogan recently addressed Conor McGregor’s admitted cocaine use – suggesting it may have shut the door on any serious possibility of the former champion returning to competition.
According to Rogan, if McGregor were going to make a comeback, it likely would have already happened. As McGregor, once the undisputed featherweight and lightweight champion in the UFC, hasn’t stepped into the Octagon since his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021.
That bout ended with McGregor suffering a broken tibia and fibula, forcing a doctor’s stoppage after the first round and marking his second consecutive defeat.
In the time since, McGregor had been slated to return. He was scheduled to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303 during International Fight Week in 2023, but a fractured toe just weeks out forced him to withdraw.
Despite years of speculation around his lifestyle outside the cage, it was during a civil trial in December – where he was found liable for sexual assault – that McGregor openly admitted to cocaine use.
Rogan shared his thoughts on the matter during a recent episode of his podcast, explaining why he believes McGregor’s drug use could be a major factor preventing a return to fighting:
When you hear guys are doing coke, that one’s the worst, that’s the one that deteriorates you more than anything.
That’s a scary one for fighters, too, because the thrill of cocaine is exciting for people who like exciting things.
Fighters are adrenaline junkies that like to be pumped up.
He added:
Conor seems to enjoy it [cocaine], which is one of the things that makes me bet he probably won’t come back.
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