Conor McGregor was seemingly set to headline UFC 300 in AprilCredit: GETTY

UFC president and CEO Dana White poured cold water on an April return for the Irishman this weekCredit: GETTY

The Notorious, however, is adamant he will top the bill of the Sin City show

UFC president Dana White, however, stunned MMA fans around the world last week by pouring cold water on a spring return for The Notorious.

But McGregor insists he will top the bill of the blockbuster Sin City card, telling a fan on X he’s “IN” when asked if he’ll headline the event.

A frustrated and emotional McGregor pleaded with the UFC brass last month to give him a date for his eagerly-anticipated comeback fight against Michael Chandler.

And despite the apparent pushing back of his return, the Dubliner reckons his blockbuster comeback will soon be finalised.

The UFC’s first simultaneous two-weight champion said: “I am confident we get the set date.

“There is no one holding no one back.

“A lot goes on behind the scenes but all involved are working hard to make it happen.”

Team McGregor were left flabbergasted by the UFC brass’ apparent plans to delay his return until International Fight Week in July.

The news sparked concerns for the slick southpaw’s mental health from his long-time coach and mentor John Kavanagh.

“He’s very frustrated,” Kavanagh said during an appearance on The MMA Hour. “I was [worried about his mental health] too.

“But hearing him today – and he’s found this great group of training partners. At least he’s doing that.

“Okay, it’s not the same as getting to compete in front of a large crowd.

“But at least he’s getting training in. And that’s so important.

“We heard Volk [Alexander Volaknovski] talk about that, keeping busy.

“So I love to hear that he’s training hard with these guys.”

The SBG Ireland head coach added: “I told him, ‘It’s a knockback hearing that we were hearing it was April and now it’s July

“‘But it’s not the end of the world. It is an extra couple of months.

“‘It’s not great, but hey, you’re enjoying your training at the moment.

“Let’s just keep that going.'”

Fan favourite McGregor hasn’t set foot inside the octagon since breaking his left leg in his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier two-and-a-half years ago.

Conor McGregor will be welcomed back to the octagon by Michael ChandlerCredit: TWITTER@THENOTORIOUSMMA