Mike Perry Believes The UFC Is Giving Conor McGregor A Hard Time

BKFC's "King of Violence," Mike Perry, is eager to see Conor McGregor back in the UFC octagon but suspects the promotion is intentionally postponing his comeback.

Perry himself is preparing for a significant return to MMA after a nearly five-year absence. He is scheduled to face Nate Diaz on May 16 as part of a highly anticipated card featuring Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano, streaming live on Netflix.

During a recent interview, "Platinum" Perry playfully addressed McGregor's situation:

“Conor’s punching the air right now, me and Nate instead of his trilogy. He’s never fought anybody in bare knuckle.”

McGregor was widely expected to complete his trilogy with Nate Diaz, but Diaz's decision to join the MVP-promoted Netflix event may complicate his future with the UFC.

Perry went on to commend McGregor's persistent efforts to return to the UFC in 2026, implying that the organization is creating obstacles for the Irish superstar. Perry stated:

“Conor, the world is excited to see you back in the ring. I know you are working on it. I know you are trying. I know the UFC is giving you a hard time. We are all looking forward to seeing him back in the ring.”

Mike Perry Calls Out Conor McGregor

McGregor had previously expressed interest in fighting on the UFC Freedom 250 card, but his name was conspicuously absent from the finalized June 14 lineup. His return is now largely anticipated for the International Fight Week card in July. Earlier this month, McGregor's manager met with UFC officials, but details regarding the negotiations or McGregor's potential opponent remain undisclosed.

The former two-division champion also revealed that an initial plan for him to fight Michael Chandler at the White House fell through, with the UFC subsequently presenting various alternative offers. Current speculation suggests McGregor might face the winner of the BMF title fight between Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway.

Mike Perry believes a fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, once a highly anticipated conclusion to The Ultimate Fighter 31 saga, no longer makes sense. Instead, Perry extended a challenge:

“He could fight me in Bare Knuckle, maybe if he wanted.”

As a part-owner of BKFC, McGregor has previously indicated an interest in bare-knuckle boxing in the future and has also shown willingness to face the "King of Violence."

For now, McGregor, who has two fights remaining on his UFC contract, is entirely focused on making his return to the octagon this year. He has reportedly been the most tested UFC fighter in 2026, indicating his intense preparation and readiness to compete against any opponent.