It’s a thrilling moment for MMA fans, as several major names are making headlines. However, due to the demands of daily life, MMA fans frequently miss out on important updates. But do not worry, EssentiallySports is back with another edition of the MMA news round-up. So, sit back and relax while we bring you some of the most recent MMA news in bite-sized chunks. The fight industry is buzzing with excitement about Conor McGregor‘s potential opponents for his long-awaited UFC return, Patrice Evra‘s stunning entry into MMA, and Dana White negotiating huge matchups for Kamaru Usman and Dustin Poirier.
Each announcement adds another layer of excitement to what promises to be an exciting summer for combat sports. Fans have been anxiously waiting for updates on their favorite fighters, and it appears that 2025 will deliver in a big way, with plenty to look forward to. So, without further ado, let’s go over the most recent developments.
Two names emerge for Conor McGregor’s awaited UFC comeback
Conor McGregor could face a major challenge, with former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub naming two possible opponents for the Irish superstar’s return. ‘The Notorious’ was once one of the sport’s most feared strikers, but his career has fallen apart in recent years. McGregor has twice lost to Dustin Poirier and, despite his quick win over Donald Cerrone, continues to be mocked by rivals like Khabib Nurmagomedov for past defeats. And his departure from the fight world was as sad as it can get, as he lay on a stretcher after losing to Dustin Poirier through a doctor’s stoppage.
Bilder des Jahres 2021, Sport 01 Januar Bilder des Jahres 2021, Sport 01 Januar Sport Themen der Woche KW03 Sport Bilder des Tages UFC, Wiegetermin in Abu Dhabi 210122 In this handout photo from Zuffa LLC Conor McGregor of Ireland poses on the scale during the UFC 257 weigh-in at Etihad Arena on UFC Fight Island on January 22, 2021 in Abu Dhabi. Photo: Jeff Bottari / Zuffa LLC / Handout / BILDBYRAN mma ufc *** 210122 In this handout photo from Zuffa LLC Conor McGregor of Ireland poses on the scale during the UFC 257 weigh in at Etihad Arena on UFC Fight Island on January 22, 2021 in Abu Dhabi Photo Jeff Bottari Zuffa LLC Handout BILDBYRAN mma ufc, PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxSWExNORxAUT Copyright: JEFFxBOTTARI BB210122ZE013
To restore his place at the top, the Irishman needs a big statement win. According to Brendan Schaub, Ilia Topuria and Paddy Pimblett would be ideal comeback opponents. In a YouTube video, Schaub suggested that if Islam Makhachev decides to fight at lightweight, Conor McGregor may face either Paddy Pimblett or Ilia Topuria.
“Either way, if it’s Topuria vs. Paddy, Paddy vs. Conor, or Conor vs. Topuria—take my money,” the former fighter said. While the anticipation about ‘La Leyenda’ and ‘The Baddy’ grows, Michael Chandler still stands ready, determined to face McGregor following their postponed clash on The Ultimate Fighter season they filmed together.
Patrice Evra calls out Luis Suarez for PFL debut
Former Manchester United great Patrice Evra has stated that he will make his fighting debut with PFL Europe on May 23 at the Accor Arena in Paris, marking an unlikely crossover between football and mixed martial arts. Although his opponent has yet to be determined, Evra wasted no time in publicly demanding a fight with former Liverpool rival Luis Suarez. “They asked who I wanna face. I said: Luis Suárez. I’ll pay out of pocket. He can even bite me,” Evra wrote on X.
BREAKING: I’m officially training for my first fight with @PFLEurope. They will pick my opponent…
They asked who I wanna face. I said:
Luis Suárez.
I’ll pay out of pocket.
He can even bite me.
— Patrice Evra (@Evra) April 25, 2025
Evra and Suarez have a long history, dating back to a 2011 incident including racial slurs that resulted in Suarez’s eight-match ban. Suarez later refused to shake Evra’s hand at their next meeting, escalating the situation. Now retired from football, Evra has been training with PFL welterweight champion Cedric Doumbe in preparation for his debut. PFL CEO Pete Murray voiced his excitement, stressing that Evra’s appearance would be a watershed moment for PFL Europe and a must-see event for fans.
Dana White books mega-fights for UFC fans
UFC CEO Dana White has made some big announcements, including Kamaru Usman‘s return. On June 14, the former welterweight champion will face rising contender Joaquin Buckley in the main event at UFC Atlanta. ‘The Nigerian Nightmare,’ who has not fought since his loss to Khamzat Chimaev in October 2023, is still ranked fourth in the division.
Despite a three-fight losing streak, Usman’s previous dominance, including five title defenses, keeps him in the title picture if he can defeat Buckley, who is riding an amazing six-fight winning streak. Along with Usman’s return, White announced that Rose Namajunas will face Miranda Maverick in the co-main event. Namajunas, ranked sixth at flyweight, hopes to rebound from a loss to Erin Blanchfield, while Maverick is on a four-fight winning streak.
Aug 20, 2022; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Kamaru Usman (red gloves) leaves the arena after being defeated by Leon Edwards (blue gloves) during UFC 278 at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
The most dramatic announcement, however, featured Dustin Poirier. After years of teasing retirement, Poirier will face Max Holloway in his farewell fight on July 19 at UFC 318 in New Orleans. With Holloway’s BMF belt on the line, the bout is filled with emotion, especially because Poirier has already defeated Holloway twice. So, now, it looks like UFC 318 promises to be a fitting farewell for one of the sport’s most beloved fighters. What do you think? Who will win the bout? Let us know in the comments.
The post Conor McGregor Has 2 Opponents for UFC Comeback; Patrice Evra and Luiz Suarez PFL Fight Update; Dana White Makes Dustin Poirier & Kamaru Usman Fights appeared first on EssentiallySports.