UFC: Conor McGregor suspended for 18 months for missing drug test

Irish mixed martial arts star Conor McGregor has accepted an 18-month suspension from the UFC following multiple breaches of the Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) policy.

The ban stems from McGregor’s failure to appear for three scheduled drug tests on June 13, September 19, and September 20, 2024.

Under UFC regulations, fighters must maintain accurate whereabouts information to allow for random testing at any time.

Missing three tests within 12 months is treated as a serious violation, equivalent to a failed test.

Initially facing a two-year suspension, McGregor’s ban was reduced by six months due to his cooperation with the investigation and his recovery from injury at the time of the missed tests.

CSAD acknowledged that McGregor was not actively training for a fight and provided detailed documentation explaining the circumstances.

The suspension officially began on September 20, 2024—the date of his third missed test—and will end on March 20, 2026, just months before his 39th birthday.

McGregor has not fought professionally since July 2021, when he suffered a broken leg in his trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier.

His anticipated return to the octagon has faced repeated delays due to injuries and contractual issues.

Recently, McGregor stirred headlines by claiming he had signed to fight on the UFC White House card scheduled for June 14, 2026, coinciding with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.

However, UFC President Dana White dismissed the claim, stating that no fights had been finalised for that event.

Away from the ring, McGregor has faced legal and personal controversies, including a court ruling in November 2024 ordering him to pay damages in a civil case.

He also announced last month that he would no longer pursue a run for the Irish presidency.

On social media, McGregor declared he would be taking a break from all platforms, signalling a retreat from public life as he serves his suspension.

Despite the setback, fans remain hopeful for his return to competition once the ban is lifted.