Mike Perry, known as BKFC’s “King of Violence,” is eager for Conor McGregor’s swift return to the Octagon, but suspects the UFC is intentionally delaying it. Coincidentally, Perry himself is preparing for his MMA comeback after a nearly five-year break, scheduled for May 16. He will face Nate Diaz as part of a major event featuring Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano, which will stream live on Netflix.
In a recent interview, “Platinum” Perry playfully teased McGregor, imagining him frustrated that Perry and Nate Diaz are fighting instead of McGregor completing his much-anticipated trilogy. Perry humorously mimicked McGregor, saying:
“Conor’s punching the air right now, me and Nate [Diaz] instead of his trilogy. [Imitates McGregor] Damn Platinum Perry, King of Violence, working off my shine in Bare Knuckle. He’s never fought anybody in bare knuckle.”
There were whispers of a third bout between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz to conclude their rivalry. However, with Diaz now committed to MVP’s major triple-header event, it’s uncertain if the UFC will be open to his return for the trilogy fight.
Perry then praised McGregor, noting that despite McGregor’s strong efforts to return to the UFC in 2026, the promotion seems to be putting obstacles in his path. Perry stated:
“Conor, the world is excited to see you back in the ring. I know you are working on it. I know you are trying. I know the UFC is giving you a hard time. We are all looking forward to seeing him back in the ring.”
Perry Challenges McGregor
Conor McGregor had previously expressed a desire to compete at UFC Freedom 250, but the event’s June 14 fight card has been finalized without his inclusion. The 37-year-old fighter is now anticipated to make his comeback during International Fight Week in July. His manager recently held discussions with UFC executives, though no details have emerged regarding the outcome of these negotiations or McGregor’s potential opponent.
Mike Perry, however, believes that the previously anticipated bout between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, intended to conclude their “TUF 31” rivalry, is no longer relevant. He then suggested:
“He [Conor McGregor] could fight me in Bare Knuckle, maybe if he wanted.”
McGregor, who holds a partial ownership stake in BKFC, has previously indicated an interest in bare-knuckle boxing in the future and appears receptive to facing the “King of Violence” from BKFC.
Currently, the former two-division UFC champion, with two fights remaining on his contract, is intently focused on making his return to the Octagon this year. He has reportedly undergone the most drug tests of any UFC fighter in 2026, demonstrating his full commitment to training and readiness to compete against any opponent.