The year 2024 was a remarkable one for the UFC, marked by incredible milestones and unforgettable moments. From thrilling events like UFC 306 at The Sphere to record-breaking gates and financial success, the promotion delivered some of the most exhilarating fights in its history. However, the year wasn’t without its challenges for some of the top talent in the company.

While some made history, others, who fans eagerly anticipated seeing in 2024, were notably absent from the Octagon. Before rushing to criticism, it’s essential to recognize that these absences often arose from personal or professional circumstances. Let’s dive into a look at the fighters we expected to see but who ultimately did not step into the cage this year.

Conor McGregor and Kamaru Usman

Let’s begin with the man everyone thought would finally make his long-awaited return to the Octagon in 2024—Conor McGregor. A polarizing yet undeniably iconic figure, the Irishman remains one of the UFC’s biggest draws, responsible for many of the promotion’s record-breaking pay-per-view sales over the last decade. After his 2021 loss to Dustin Poirier and a subsequent leg injury requiring surgery, fans eagerly anticipated his return following a prolonged hiatus.

Originally slated to face Michael Chandler in 2023, the bout fell apart after McGregor sustained a toe injury. While Chandler moved on to fight Charles Oliveira, McGregor shifted his focus to his burgeoning business ventures, including his liquor brand and part-ownership in BKFC.

Adding to his challenges, Conor McGregor faced a civil lawsuit that further complicated his return. Now, as we step into 2025, rumors are swirling about a potential exhibition boxing match against Logan Paul in India. However, another year has come and gone without McGregor stepping back into the Octagon—a reality that leaves fans both frustrated and disappointed.

Next, we have Kamaru Usman, who has been notably absent from the UFC since his last outing at UFC 294. In a short-notice bout, Usman faced Khamzat Chimaev and suffered a hard-fought loss. This marked his third consecutive defeat, following back-to-back losses to Leon Edwards, leaving Usman at a crossroads in his illustrious career. According to an Instagram post, it has now been over 434 days since Usman last competed.

Despite his recent setbacks, ‘The Nigerian Nightmare’ remains a formidable name in the sport. Joaquin Buckley, fresh off a win over Colby Covington, called Usman out, while Ian Garry openly criticized his inactivity. However, there’s hope on the horizon—rumors suggest that Usman might return to face rising contender Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 312 in Australia. A victory could reignite his career and reestablish him as a top contender in the welterweight division.

Josh Emmett and Marvin Vettori

Josh Emmett, currently ranked #8 in the featherweight division, is known for his concussive knockout power. At UFC 296, the 39-year-old secured a scintillating victory against rising star Bryce Mitchell, bouncing back after two consecutive losses. Facing a younger, highly-touted opponent, Emmett delivered one of the most jaw-dropping knockouts of his career in the first round, effectively saving his position in the division and extending his legacy as one of the division’s most dangerous hitters.

Following his spectacular 2023 performance, fans eagerly anticipated his return in 2024. Unfortunately, Emmett has remained inactive throughout the year, with reports suggesting he has been dealing with injuries. There’s a silver lining for fans of Emmett, as the 145lbs powerhouse has hinted at a return to action at the beginning of 2025. Addressing his inactivity, Emmett told MMA Junkie, “It’s a question everyone has been asking me, but over the last handful of years I have not been my best, and this year I took the whole year off to get back to 100 percent.”

He expressed that he owes this to his family, friends, and team, and he’s determined to make a strong comeback in 2025. Interestingly, Emmett also mentioned Ilia Topuria as a potential opponent he’d like to face next. As for Marvin Vettori, the former 185lbs title challenger has been out of action for nearly 18 months. During his absence, the division has crowned not one but two new champions.

However, good news is on the horizon. Vettori recently teased fans with a comeback update on X, where he wrote, “Almost there,” before adding, “February or March [2025], I’m ready to fight.” Vettori was originally scheduled to face Brendan Allen in April 2024, but a freak injury forced him to withdraw from the bout. Now, as he gears up for his return, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the career of the #7 ranked middleweight.

Jan Blachowicz and Beneil Dariush

UFC 297 was set to mark Jan Blachowicz’s triumphant return following his narrow loss to Alex Pereira. Scheduled to face Alexander Rakic, the bout was highly anticipated until an unfortunate shoulder injury forced the Polish juggernaut to withdraw. The former champ revealed that the injury occurred during training, requiring surgery to repair the damage. Addressing the cancellation, Blachowicz shared on Instagram, “It wasn’t supposed to be this way. It’s hard to express how I feel because it’s a mixture of anger and sadness. Withdrawing from a fight due to injury is one of the most difficult decisions a fighter can make.”

Although the decision was undoubtedly heartbreaking, it was necessary for his long-term health and career. Fans shouldn’t lose hope, though, as 2025 promises an exciting comeback. Blachowicz is slated to fight Carlos Ulberg at UFC Fight Night in London, where the 29-fight veteran will face the rising underdog in a pivotal matchup.

As for Beneil Dariush, the lightweight contender finds himself at a critical juncture in his career. After suffering consecutive losses to Arman Tsarukyan and Charles Oliveira in 2023, Dariush is now ranked #9 and in desperate need of a victory heading into UFC 311. While Islam Makhachev prepares to defend his title against Tsarukyan, Dariush is reflecting on his future in the sport.

Ahead of his upcoming bout against Renato Moicano in the year’s first pay-per-view, Dariush admitted the stakes are high. Speaking to Inside Fighting, he shared, “That was in the upper echelon of the division and I didn’t perform well. So now I have an opportunity—either get back there and try again or go further back… Like, if I can only stay outside of the top 15, I don’t want to fight. If I can’t be the best, I don’t want to do this.”

Dominick Cruz and Rafael Fiziev

Dominick Cruz, the consensus 135lbs GOAT, is gearing up for what he believes will be his final fight. Cruz hasn’t competed since his loss to Marlon Vera at UFC on ESPN 41. During his time away from the Octagon, the 39-year-old has remained active in the sport, lending his expertise as a commentator and analyst. However, the fire to compete still burns brightly, and Cruz is determined to step into the cage one last time. “I’ll tell you, I think I’ve got a last dance,” Cruz told TMZ. “I want one last dance in me. Just go out there and have fun. And when I say fun, I mean fight to the bitter death and see what I have in me.”

Currently, ‘The Dominator’ is training at high altitude in Mexico City at the UFC Performance Institute. It is safe to say that he is serious about his anticipated return in the first half of 2025. Fans are eager to see the veteran showcase his legendary skills in what could be the final chapter of his storied career. Meanwhile, Rafael Fiziev is looking to rebound from a tough stretch in his career. Currently ranked #11, Fiziev is on a two-fight losing streak, with setbacks against Justin Gaethje and Mateusz Gamrot.

As 2025 approaches, Fiziev is ready for redemption and has a rematch against Gamrot on the horizon. Determined to turn the page on an unremarkable 2024, Fiziev aims to prove that he’s still a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division. Are you excited to see these fighters add more legendary performances to their resumes in 2025? Share your thoughts in the comments below!