Conor McGregor USADA testing: What did the organization say about the Irishman's eligibility to resume competition?

After being announced as a coach on 'The Ultimate Fighter' (TUF) 31 and a subsequent bout against opposing coach Michael Chandler being seemingly set, it was believed that Conor McGregor was on his way back. The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has now cast some doubt on his return this year.

USADA is keen to keep the sport an even playing field for all competitors and fighters are required to provide tests for at least six months prior to their bouts in the UFC. Although fans expect a comeback for the Irishman this year, time is running out for him to re-enter the testing pool.

The anti-doping organization's statement regarding Conor McGregor's eligibility to compete has recently surfaced online and caused a stir. The former two-division champion has reportedly not informed USADA of his return:

"While we meet with all athletes who enter or re-enter the testing pool, we do not currently have a meeting set with Conor and, as of today, we have not received notice of his coming out of retirement to compete... In addition to two negative tests, an athlete must make themself available for testing for six months before returning to competition. This is a fair way to ensure an athlete does not use the retirement status to gain an unfair advantage... Conor should be in the testing pool for the full six-month period."

McGregor last fought inside the octagon almost two years ago in his doctor's stoppage defeat to Dustin Poirier. After sustaining a serious leg injury in the bout, the Dublin native has recovered and seems desperate to return to the cage and force his way back into the title picture.

Check out the full response from USADA regarding Conor McGregor's eligibility to fight in the UFC below:

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Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler: What does the USADA response mean for the TUF coaches' bout?

Originally, Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler were to film the latest season of TUF before stepping into the octagon and locking horns later this year.

That could now be in jeopardy.

If 'The Notorious' enters the USADA testing pool before the end of the month, he will be available to compete sometime in September, which would align with TUF ending in August.

While it may seem like a worrying time for McGregor fans at present, there is arguably no need to panic as long as the 34-year-old enrolls back into the program in the near future.