Michael Chandler Admits Conor McGregor Superfight Might Not Happen in the UFC

UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler believes the Conor McGregor superfight may take place in a different promotion.

Michael Chandler Admits Conor McGregor Superfight Might Not Happen in the UFC

Michael Chandler gives up on Conor McGregor fight (via Bleacher Report, MMA Fighting)

Michael Chandler entered the UFC as one of the promotion’s most exciting signings after a successful Bellator career. Despite recent setbacks, he remains one of MMA’s most electric performers because of his aggressive fighting style. One major storyline throughout his UFC run was the failed fight against Conor McGregor. Chandler recently revisited the topic following McGregor’s announced UFC 329 return.

The rivalry between Chandler and McGregor began during Season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter, where both coached opposing teams ahead of a planned fight. The bout was later scheduled for UFC 303 in June 2024, following an extended buildup. However, the Irishman withdrew due to a toe injury before fight week. The cancellation stopped the matchup from happening despite heavy promotion.

McGregor is now set to return to competition after nearly five years away from active fighting. He is scheduled to headline UFC 329 in a rematch against Max Holloway at welterweight. The matchup marks a major return for McGregor after a prolonged absence. Chandler recently stated that the UFC fight he pursued for years has now slipped away, though it could still happen under a different promotion.

I just feel like I’m a million miles away from it now. I don’t really have any emotions about it, maybe because I’m focused on Mauricio Ruffy. I wish Conor well. The sport is a better place when Conor McGregor is training on his way back. I’ll be there cageside, very interested to see how that fight goes. Whether me or Conor fight in the UFC or not, Conor and I will compete against each other at some point, in some venue, somehow, somewhere.

Michael Chandler via MMA Junkie

Rumors of a Chandler versus McGregor bout resurfaced after the announcement of the UFC White House event, reigniting discussion about the long-delayed matchup. However, the plan did not move forward and ultimately collapsed again before becoming official. The former Bellator star still secured a spot on the UFC Freedom 250 card, where he is set to face Brazilian contender Mauricio Ruffy.

The McGregor fight was seen as a major matchup for Chandler due to the Irishman’s global influence and UFC drawing power. The bout became a long-term target because of its career and commercial significance. The American lightweight later revealed that his wife, Brie Chandler, encouraged him to refocus on his own value. She believed ‘Iron’ had at times lost himself while chasing the McGregor fight.

Michael Chandler has suggested that the Conor McGregor matchup could still happen under different circumstances. However, both fighters are in the later stages of their careers, making timing crucial. BKFC has been mentioned as a possible platform due to its rising profile, with ex-UFC fighters like Mike Perry finding success there. The rivalry remains unresolved, with its future dependent on opportunity.

RELATED
Michael Chandler ‘At Peace’ Despite Losing Two Years Chasing Conor McGregor Fight

Michael Chandler remains positive for UFC Freedom 250 despite recent setbacks

Michael Chandler’s UFC run has largely been marked by disappointment despite expectations following his signing from Bellator. He made an immediate impact by defeating Dan Hooker in his debut. Chandler has since suffered losses to Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and, most recently, Paddy Pimblett in his latest outing. His knockout victory over Tony Ferguson remains the defining highlight of his UFC tenure.

Michael Chandler
Michael Chandler (via MMA Fighting)

Chandler is set to face Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House event. The bout comes as he looks to rebound after a tough run against elite lightweight opposition. Ruffy is a younger, dangerous contender coming off a knockout win over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 325. Heading into the fight, Chandler addressed criticism of his recent performances and current standing in the sport.

Looking at my last performance, you have every right to believe that I have fallen off, that I will never be a champion, and that I’m sailing off into the sunset. You have every right to think that I’m going to go out there and get absolutely smashed by Mauricio Ruffy. You have every right to say that—there’s no problem with that. With that being said, I believe I’m going to prove all these people wrong.

Michael Chandler via MMA Junkie

A loss in this fight could force the former Bellator champion to reassess his long-term future in the UFC. One potential alternative could be RAF, where he already has a win over Chad Mendes at RAF 03. That victory has kept his name relevant within the promotion’s growing roster discussions. The situation leaves Michael Chandler’s career direction open depending on his next performance.

Also Read: