Conor McGregor picks Michael Chandler’s rival as next opponent for blockbuster return

Former UFC champion Conor McGregor ditches Michael Chandler to fight Dan Hooker as his next opponent in 2025.

Conor McGregor picks Michael Chandler’s rival as next opponent for blockbuster return

Conor McGregor wants to fight Dan Hooker instead of Michael Chandler (via Imago)

Conor McGregor is yet to make his UFC return which was originally scheduled at UFC 303 against Michael Chandler. After the cancellation, Chandler has now dropped his plans to fight McGregor. Surprisingly, the ‘Notorious’ has set his eyes on fighting another big UFC lightweight. 

McGregor was recently at the BKFC Spain event, where he had an absolute blast. The co-owner participated in the event and surrounded the main event fighters by doubling their fight purse. The Irish fighter also shocked fight fans after he name-dropped Dan Hooker as his opponent. 

February first, Saudi Arabia. Dan Hooker.

Conor McGregor via Multiple media platforms 
YouTube video

McGregor and Hooker had a brief exchange during the event, with Hooker attending to watch the BKFC fight. For some time, Hooker has been plotting to secure the ‘red panty night’ from Chandler, and it appears he may have succeeded. This development is undoubtedly a blow for Chandler, who waited for two years for this opportunity.

FS Video

Besides this, McGregor also talked about his potential BKFC rematch with Floyd Mayweather and beating YouTuber turned boxer KSI. Given his past record, it won’t be surprising to see McGregor bailout of all these promises. However, CEO Dana White confirmed McGregor’s return in early 2025, and fans are hyped about it. 

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Dan Hooker is ready to fight Conor McGregor in early 2025

Irrespective of his inconsistent UFC record, Dan Hooker is currently one of the top lightweights in the world. The Irish fighter is wild; fans love to see him being himself inside the octagon. Other than Michael Chandler, ‘Hangman’ does have the ability to stand in front of McGregor’s trash-talking.

Dan Hooker vs. Conor McGregor
Dan Hooker vs. Conor McGregor (via X)

Hooker recently agreed to participate in a 4-man BMF battle proposed by former title contender Dustin Poirier. Dana White has unofficially given the green light for this tournament. However, the New Zealander is ready to trade hands with McGregor between January to March. 

I know he needs to fight his contact out with the UFC, he’s looking for an opponent. I’m ready to fight…I’m good to go, January, March next year. It’s another big fight and the fans would love to see.

Dan Hooker via Jamal Niaz
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McGregor’s wild antics are at an all-time high, negatively affecting fans’ perceptions of his determination to return. Fighters like Sean O’Malley and Ilia Topuria have mocked McGregor for his alcoholism and inability to fight again. It would be interesting to see if the Irish fighter could prove his detractors wrong in the upcoming months.