Conor McGregor has been challenged to make a sensational return to the UFC in a blockbuster event at Real Madrid's famous Santiago Bernabeu stadium.
The stadium, which boasts an impressive capacity of 81,044 seats, would host the largest UFC fight in European history.
Listen to a Summary of the Article
Long-awaited Comeback
McGregor, who hasn't stepped into the octagon for two and a half years since his devastating loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021, has been in talks for a comeback fight against Michael Chandler for over a year.
Despite his absence, the former UFC double-champion remains the biggest draw in the sport, attracting a number of eager opponents.
Ilia Topuria's Challenge
Ilia Topuria, who is set to face Alexander Volkanovski for the UFC featherweight championship at UFC 298, has thrown down the gauntlet and called out McGregor for a fight.
Topuria believes he can defeat Volkanovski and is eyeing a showdown with McGregor in the Spanish capital.
During an interview on The MMA Hour, Topuria said, "Conor McGregor, that's the fight I'm looking for. If he doesn't get his ass whooped, he will be a pleasure to share the Octagon with me."
He also mentioned the possibility of the fight taking place in Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, which has recently undergone a £500 million renovation, including a retractable roof and a 360-degree video screen.
Topuria added, "The stadium is ready to host events. You can close the roof, cover the grass. It would be one of the biggest ticket sales in UFC history."
The Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, has become an iconic venue for sporting events and could provide the perfect backdrop for McGregor's return to the octagon.
While no official announcement has been made regarding McGregor's next fight, fans are eagerly awaiting news of his comeback and a potential clash with Topuria.
