2026 MMA Predictions: Jones Retires, McGregor Returns

Predictions for 2026 point toward a significant conclusion to the career of Jon Jones. The forecasts indicate that Jones will not fight in the upcoming year, suggesting a formal retirement from the sport. This marks the end of a long and dominant era for one of MMA's most accomplished figures. The decision to step away from competition represents a major shift for the heavyweight division and the sport as a whole. Jones has long been a central figure in MMA, and his absence will create a void in the championship landscape. The prediction of his retirement is a key element of the 2026 outlook for the sport.

The retirement of a champion of Jones's caliber signifies a major turning point. His career has been defined by title defenses and high-profile victories. The forecasts suggest that 2026 will be the year he officially closes this chapter. This development is expected to lead to a reshuffling of the rankings and open up new opportunities for contenders in his division. The end of Jones's active career is one of the most impactful predictions for the year.

In a direct contrast to the predictions surrounding Jones, forecasts for 2026 indicate that Conor McGregor will return to the octagon. The anticipation of McGregor's comeback is a major storyline for the year. His return would undoubtedly draw significant global attention, given his status as one of the sport's biggest stars. The predictions suggest that after a period away, McGregor is set to re-engage with competition. This move is expected to create new and highly anticipated matchups within his weight class. The prospect of a McGregor return is a defining element of the 2026 MMA predictions.

McGregor's potential comeback adds a layer of excitement and uncertainty to the sport's future. His return would have immediate implications for the rankings and the business of MMA. The forecasts position him as a central figure in the year's narrative, shifting the focus from departures to arrivals. The dual predictions of Jones's retirement and McGregor's return highlight a theme of change and renewal for the sport in 2026. This anticipated comeback is poised to be one of the most discussed topics in the coming months.

The combined predictions for Jon Jones and Conor McGregor paint a picture of a sport in transition. The forecasts suggest that 2026 will be a year defined by the departure of old champions and the return of former stars. This dynamic indicates a significant turnover in the MMA hierarchy. The retirement of a current champion and the return of a former one represent two sides of the same coin: change. This predicted shift could lead to new rivalries and a fresh competitive environment. The forecasts for 2026 point to an exciting and unpredictable year for mixed martial arts.

The theme of change is central to these predictions. The idea that old champions will return while current champs will retire suggests a major realignment of the sport's power structure. This could create opportunities for new fighters to emerge and establish themselves. The anticipated moves by Jones and McGregor are just the most prominent examples of this larger trend. The year 2026 is forecasted to be a pivotal moment, marking the end of one generation and the potential rise of another in the world of MMA.