Mike Perry Suggests UFC Is Hindering Conor McGregor's Comeback

Mike Perry, known as the "King of Violence" in BKFC, expressed his eagerness for Conor McGregor's swift return to the octagon, simultaneously suggesting that the UFC is intentionally postponing his comeback. Perry himself is scheduled to end his almost five-year MMA break on May 16, facing Nate Diaz. This fight will be part of an MVP-promoted event featuring Ronda Rousey against Gina Carano, broadcast live on Netflix.

In a recent interview with Ariel Helwani, "Platinum" Perry playfully taunted McGregor:

"Conor's probably shadowboxing right now, thinking about me and Nate Diaz fighting instead of his trilogy. [Imitating McGregor] 'Damn Platinum Perry, King of Violence, stealing my bare-knuckle spotlight!' He's never even fought bare-knuckle."

There had been speculation about a third fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz to conclude their rivalry. However, with Diaz now participating in the high-profile MVP event, there's uncertainty whether the UFC will allow his return in the future.

Perry then praised McGregor, noting that despite McGregor's strong efforts to return to the UFC in 2026, the promotion seems to be creating difficulties for the Irish fighter:

"Conor, the world is eager to see you back in the ring. I know you're working hard on it. I know you're trying. I know the UFC is making things tough for you. We're all genuinely looking forward to your return."

Perry Challenges Conor McGregor

McGregor had previously indicated his desire to fight at UFC Freedom 250, but the June 14 fight card has been finalized without his inclusion. The 37-year-old is now anticipated to make his comeback during International Fight Week in July. Although McGregor's manager met with UFC executives recently, no details have emerged regarding the outcome of those discussions or the identity of "The Notorious'" next opponent.

Mike Perry, however, believes that a fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, highly anticipated by fans to conclude the TUF 31 narrative, is no longer a sensible matchup. He subsequently proposed:

"He [Conor McGregor] could potentially fight me in Bare Knuckle, if he was interested."

McGregor, who is a co-owner of BKFC, has previously expressed openness to a bare-knuckle boxing match in the future and has even shown willingness to face BKFC's "King of Violence" himself.

Currently, the former two-division UFC champion, with two fights remaining on his contract, is intensely focused on making his octagon return this year. He has undergone the most drug tests among UFC fighters in 2026, demonstrating his full commitment to training and readiness to compete against any opponent.