Conor McGregor Eyes $100 Million Payday for White House Fight Amid Rising Sports Betting Interest

McGregor hasn’t fought since 2021
Irishman has stated he wants to fight at UFC White House event
Bantamweight Dvalishvili betting favourite over Sandhagen at UFC 320

For a fighter who hasn’t stepped into the Octagon in four years, Conor McGregor’s $100 million demand to headline next year’s White House UFC card is bound to send shockwaves through the industry, especially as fans look to capitalize on the massive surge in sports betting interest surrounding his potential return.

Sports event — Image by wal_172619 from Pixabay

Conor McGregor engages with media after BKFC 70 Hollywood at Hard Rock Live in Florida. He is looking for $100 million to take part in next summer’s White House UFC event.

McGregor Looking for the Big Bucks

“$100 million to fight at the White House along with 100 U.S. Golden Visas for myself and family and friends. I look very forward to entertaining the fighting world once again. A pleasure I never take for granted!”

That’s what McGregor wrote on social media platform X. The UFC is currently collaborating with the U.S. administration to construct a temporary stadium to accommodate 5,000 attendees and host a UFC event on the White House lawn during America’s 250th birthday celebrations.

Following the announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump in July, McGregor promptly expressed his interest in participating. An additional park nearby will accommodate tens of thousands of fans, complete with large screens and a live music stage.

White House Lawn Event

UFC President Dana White revealed plans for the event on Fox News, outlining his vision for the spectacular setup.

“My plan includes a massive arch, with a lighting grid, allowing the White House to be displayed prominently in the background while the fights are happening. When the fights rotate to the other side, attendees will also see the Washington Monument,” said White.

Immigration Gold Card

The “Golden Visas” McGregor referenced likely relate to the Trump Gold Card immigration program, which has recently reduced its fee from $5 million to $1 million, fast-tracking residency for those who pay.

McGregor has also shown interest in a fight with Michael Chandler, who has indicated his willingness to face McGregor.

Since breaking his leg in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021, McGregor has been out of the UFC Octagon. His planned comeback against Chandler at UFC 303 in June 2024 was thwarted due to a toe injury, leaving McGregor with three losses in his last four UFC outings.

Despite the uncertainties surrounding McGregor’s return, White mentioned that they have been actively communicating, indicating a potential path for McGregor’s comeback.

UFC 320: Sandhagen Addresses O’Malley Challenge

Cory Sandhagen, currently the No. 4 ranked bantamweight fighter, is focused on his upcoming title fight against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 320 (Sandhagen +300, Dvalishvili -440 at FanDuel).

No. 1 ranked bantamweight Sean O’Malley has been vocal on his podcast about the significance of the UFC 320 showdown, as well as the potential match-up against Sandhagen, targeting the White House event.

“Cory wins at UFC 320, I beat whoever’s next; that’s intriguing,” he said. “In any case, I’m keen to engage in a fight within the next few months, and I’ll also be set for that. Being part of the Sphere card and the White House card could define my career—these are legendary moments!”

Bantamweight Title Fight

However, Sandhagen has expressed his doubt regarding immediate title shots, stating in an interview with CBS Sports that “Umar and Yan are the more deserving fighters currently.” He remains focused on his upcoming fight in October and is eager to solidify his title contention in the first quarter of next year.

Sandhagen added, “I think a fight against O’Malley at the White House would be incredible, but he needs to secure a couple more wins first.”

In Summary

Conor McGregor’s ambitious expectation of $100 million to fight at the White House UFC event has sparked discussions across the sporting community. While there are uncertainties surrounding his return, the UFC plans to deliver an unforgettable celebration for America’s 250th birthday. The upcoming UFC 320 event is also set to be a pivotal milestone for other fighters like Cory Sandhagen and Sean O’Malley, as they navigate their paths in the UFC hierarchy.