Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler tease settling ‘unfinished business’ despite Irishman’s long hiatus

UFC superstar Conor McGregor and former Bellator champion Michael Chandler discuss the potential of a UFC bout.

Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler tease settling ‘unfinished business’ despite Irishman’s long hiatus

Conor McGregor teases a fight with Michael Chandler (via Imago)

Conor McGregor hasn’t stepped into the UFC octagon for more than three years now, raising questions about his fighting future. While the chances of him coming back are getting less day by day, hope still lingers among fans and analysts alike. The fighter recently had an exchange with Michael Chandler which shows otherwise, sparking speculation that the comeback might actually happen.

Chandler and McGregor were supposed to fight each other at UFC 303 which got cancelled due the Irishman’s toe injury. Since then there had been no updates until recently when McGregor mentioned that he was unfinished with Chandler. The former Bellator champion responded back and matched the Irishman’s energy, hinting at a potential fight in the future. 

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Michael Chandler via X 

Chandler waited for a whopping two years in order to get the fight against McGregor, but it never happened. After losing out on the ‘red panty night’, Chandler decided to give up and fight a former lightweight champion. However, he lost against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, and recently lost against rising lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett. 

In both the fights, Chandler looked out of form and got dominated especially against Pimblett, losing the bout via TKO. In that fight, McGregor placed a whopping $500K bet on ‘Iron Mike’ which he lost but it didn’t bother him. Chandler coached the TUF season 31 against the ‘Notorious’, and was able to create a huge hype around their rivalry. 

McGregor is well aware of Chandler’s ability to promote the fight, however, consecutive losses has definitely affected his star power. However, when it’s against the former UFC double champion, only his name is enough to bring the fans inside the octagon. But given his regular antics, it’s hard to believe anything that the ‘Mystic Mac’ has promised lately. 

Conor McGregor opens up about his political aspirations 

Conor McGregor has recently hinted at political aspirations, suggesting he may pursue a leadership role in Ireland’s future government someday. His visit to Donald Trump sparked media buzz, as McGregor praised Trump’s accomplishments and hinted at political inspiration from the US President. He has repeatedly expressed interest in Irish government affairs, criticizing current leadership and proposing solutions to social issues affecting the working class.

Conor McGregor's political ambitions
Conor McGregor’s political ambitions (via X)

McGregor even teased a potential presidential bid, blending national pride with his larger-than-life persona. He also gained support from fans intrigued by his bold ambition. While some remained skeptical due to his controversies, others backed McGregor’s passion and charisma. In a recent interview with American journalist, Tucker Carlson, McGregor shared his opinion on traditional government. 

I am of the belief that the era of the politician must end. It must come to an end. It has proven unfruitful. And that is clear as day. By the statistics and by what we see around us. It is straight chancery. And our appointed ministers have no history in the roles that they’re appointed to.

Conor McGregor via Tucker Carlson 

However, his ambitions might be a little far-fetched given his declining popularity in Ireland. Over the last few years, McGregor’s fame in Ireland took a huge hit due to frequent controversies and behavior. Many Irish citizens find it arrogant, aggressive, and disappointing, given his previous personality as a great role model.

Legal troubles and public rants have alienated fans who once admired his grit, but now question his character and accountability. Many Irish citizens feel McGregor no longer represents their values, seeing him more as a celebrity than a national sports hero. 

Younger athletes have now changed their views, making McGregor’s brash persona feel outdated and unappealing to many. It would be interesting to see his global fan base react to the potential news about his UFC comeback.

Related: Conor McGregor luxury watch: What are the collections that the Irishman owns?