Conor McGregor is hoping to be back in the Octagon this year in a big boost for the UFC.

The Irishman is still recovering from the broken leg that he suffered during his fight with Dustin Poirier last year.

His co-manager has denied suggestions that the 33-year-old is looking to return this summer despite his fast recovery.

Speaking on The MMA Hour, Paradigm Sports Senior vice president Tim Simpson said: “I don’t think it will be in the summer but it will definitely be some stage this year.

“Maybe we see when the lightweight title fight happens and go then.

“He will fight this year and it is a credit to him, he has no real reason to fight other than the fact he wants to and that is impressive.”

The ‘Notorious’ is the biggest star in the MMA arena and the fact he wants to come back so soon despite the enormous wealth he has achieved over the years, shows why he’s such a fan favourite.

Jul 10, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Conor McGregor before fighting against Dustin Poirier during UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Jul 10, 2021; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Conor McGregor before fighting against Dustin Poirier during UFC 264 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Simpson added: “He doesn’t need to come back, the fact he is who he is and what he has achieved financially and athletically.

“After that injury it was like, ‘Now might be the time’. But he wants to fight again which to me is baffling and says a lot about him.”

The Dubliner has been constantly updating his fans with his latest physique on social media, which has driven talk of his return into overdrive.

His coach John Kavanagh told Fox Sports: “155lbs seems to suit his frame, at the moment yeah light-heavyweight he is more suited towards but by the summertime when he is ready to return, the weight will be back down again.

“The physical stage of recovery is pretty much complete now; you have seen your posts himself.

“He has been enjoying himself over Christmas but he is ready to get back to that serious side of training and get ready for another contest.”

A fourth meeting with Poirier is the most popular match-up being talked about at the moment for McGregor, whilst bouts against Nate Diaz, Justin Gaethje and even Jake Paul have been suggested.