Conor McGregor's return to UFC: Coach John Kavanagh hints at comeback

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Conor McGregor is one of the most popular figures of Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and his pullout from the UFC 200 fight card caused a lot of controversy with the fighter himself mocking the decision.

The Irishman was removed from UFC 200 over his refusal to promote the fight, leaving fans disappointed as the Conor McGregor vs Nate Diaz clash was one of the most awaited fights of the year. This lead to speculations of a rift between president Dana White and the Irishman. However, if his coach John Kavanagh is to be believed, then the fighter may return to the ring sooner than expected.

Kavanagh was responding to fan comments on Facebook when he responded on an inquiry about when McGregor would return back to the ring. The coach responding: "UFC 201 or 202, announcement soon I'm sure."

While nothing is confirmed, it at least gives an indication of when the Irishman could be back as there have been conflicting reports on his return. McGregor though is keen for a rematch with Nate Diaz, looking for every possible opportunity to avenge his loss to the American at UFC 196.

The 27-year-old took to Instagram as recently as Sunday to get the UFC authorities to put his fight with Diaz back up, saying: "Nobody gives a (expletive) about these other fights until this one is settle. Cut the (expletive). Run it back. #RealFight." The post has now been deleted.

The UFC authorities, who are currently focused on UFC 200, have not responded to McGregor's claims or posts, with no specific details of either UFC 201 or UFC 202 available as of now. For now, the Irishman is not booked or scheduled to fight at any event, with White yet to respond on the future of one of the most marketable fighters in MMA history.