In the exciting world of mixed martial arts, one name that has captured the hearts of fans is Conor McGregor. However, recent comments from his rival, Michael Chandler, have raised eyebrows about whether McGregor will ever step foot in the Octagon again. As the dust settles on their previously planned fight, Chandler shares his doubts about McGregor’s return to the UFC.
Chandler Moves On from McGregor Fight
It’s been a wild ride for Michael Chandler as he has finally put aside his hopes for a match against Conor McGregor. The pair was supposed to headline UFC 303, but injuries sidelined McGregor, leaving Chandler without the anticipated fight. Instead, Chandler is now preparing to face Paddy Pimblett in the co-main event of UFC 314 on April 12, 2024. Chandler, who has fought five times in just 28 months, emphasized how he is focused on his career rather than waiting indefinitely for McGregor.
McGregor’s Long Absence from the Octagon
Conor McGregor hasn’t fought since July 2021, when he suffered a serious leg injury during a bout with Dustin Poirier. Many fans have been eagerly waiting for his return, but as time passes, doubts continue to grow. McGregor has been busy with his whiskey brand and other business ventures, further straying from the UFC spotlight. Chandler pointed out that McGregor seems to be distracted by various “shiny objects,” which could hinder his comeback plans.
Chandler’s Thoughts on McGregor’s Return
In a recent interview, Chandler expressed doubt about the likelihood of McGregor returning anytime soon, saying, “I’d give it a slim chance.” While he acknowledges McGregor’s talents and fan following, he believes that the former champion’s distractions and challenges make a comeback feel improbable. Despite this uncertainty, Chandler remains open to the idea of fighting McGregor if the opportunity arises, indicating that he has no regrets about the situation and is committed to staying active in the UFC.
Rivalry with Jeremy Stephens Intensifies
Meanwhile, another foe is stirring the pot. Jeremy Stephens, a long-time rival of McGregor, has thrown down the gauntlet, challenging him to fight. This development escalates the decade-long feud that began back in 2016 during a UFC press conference. With both fighters’ contractual situations now seemingly more favorable, the prospect of a McGregor-Stephens showdown looms larger than ever. Stephens has made it clear that he believes McGregor cannot evade this challenge.
McGregor’s Political Aspirations
On top of the fighting drama, Conor McGregor’s ambitions have turned political. Not only has he hinted at wanting to run for President of Ireland, but he also plans a major meeting with former President Donald Trump on St. Patrick’s Day. McGregor has been vocal about critiquing Ireland’s judicial system and has called for an independent campaign, which adds yet another layer to his already complicated persona. Fans are curious how this will impact his future in the UFC.
| Fighter | Upcoming Fight | Recent Fight | Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Chandler | Paddy Pimblett on April 12, 2024 | Lost to Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 | 23 Wins – 9 Losses |
| Conor McGregor | Not scheduled | Lost to Dustin Poirier (injury) | Not active since July 2021 |
As the chapters of these fighters evolve, fans can only speculate about what the future holds for Conor McGregor and whether he will ever return to the Octagon. For now, Michael Chandler is eager to keep moving forward, focusing on his next fight while acknowledging the complexities surrounding McGregor’s potential comeback.
