McGregor eyes Chandler, Diaz in 2024

Conor McGregor wants to fight Michael Chandler and Nate Diaz - both this year.

McGregor said Tuesday that he hopes to make his long-awaited Octagon return against Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29 and then face Diaz at UFC 306 on Sept. 14, the promotion's first event at the Sphere in Las Vegas.

"I wish for (the Diaz fight) on Mexican Independence Day in the Sphere," McGregor wrote on Instagram. "Chandler, June. Diaz, September. I have let this be known."

The former UFC two-division champion's comeback has been one of the hottest topics in the MMA world for over a year, but "The Notorious" and the UFC have yet to reach a deal for a fight.

McGregor announced in December that he was fighting Chandler on June 29 after initially targeting UFC 300 in April. But UFC CEO Dana White pushed back the timeline for McGregor-Chandler in February, saying he hoped the fight would happen in the fall.

McGregor added Tuesday that although he is still holding out hope he'll make his return June 29, a "lack of action" by the UFC has caused "a lack of enthusiasm."

"I need a decision soon," McGregor wrote. "I am the most tested athlete under this new regime. Yet no date to fight.

"The game is a bit lackluster also at present, which isn't helping. I hope these next few cards pop and I get a date. Eliminate distractions and begin real work towards it."

The Irishman hasn't stepped into the cage since breaking his leg against Dustin Poirier in July 2021. McGregor coached "The Ultimate Fighter 31" opposite Chandler last year, intending to face Chandler in the UFC afterward.