Charles Oliveira volunteers as Conor McGregor leaves Michael Chandler hanging in potential ‘super fight’

Irish Superstar Conor McGregor may have become uninterested in fighting Michael Chandler. It led to Charles Oliveira emerging as the odds-on favorite to fight McGregor

Charles Oliveira volunteers as Conor McGregor leaves Michael Chandler hanging in potential ‘super fight’

Charles Oliveira might be facing Conor McGregor for the next UFC mega fight ( Image source: L/R- Getty Images )

Charles Oliveira is poised to replace Michael Chandler in the Conor McGregor comeback fight. According to the latest round of rumors, McGregor may not want to fight Chandler later this year. Initially scheduled as a clash between the two coaches from The Ultimate Fighter Season 31, it seems the Irishman has lost interest in going up against the formidable ‘Iron’ and will consider fighting someone else.

Responding to this news on Twitter, former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira expressed interest in the fight. Oliveira recently made a triumphant return to the octagon at UFC 289. After losing the belt to Islam Makhachev, he delivered a stunning knockout victory over Beneil Dariush. With multiple potential contenders for his next fight, Oliveira finds himself in a favorable position for a title or McGregor fight.

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Among the various options available, one potential matchup remains the highly anticipated rematch against Islam Makhachev for the title. However, with McGregor’s uncertainty for the year 2023 due to USADA testing, a new opportunity has emerged for Oliveira. A potential showdown against the Irish fighter could happen.

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McGregor’s fighting plans for 2023 have been cast into doubt due to his involvement in USADA testing. McGregor was confident about his return after being away from the Octagon for nearly two years. Especially after recovering from a leg injury suffered in his last bout against Dustin Poirier in 2021. However, his fighting eligibility this year depends on his inclusion in the USADA testing pool.

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Conor McGregor has 48 hours to enter the USADA testing pool

Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor gets 48 hours to enlist in the USADA ( Image source: Getty Images )

Reportedly McGregor has a limited 48-hour window to enter the USADA testing pool to compete at UFC 296. Failing to enter the testing pool by Friday would result in his ineligibility to fight in 2023. These are in accordance with USADA regulations. UFC 296 is the final PPV of 2023, and McGregor needs to re-enter the USADA pool to become eligible for fighting.

The Director of Communications at USADA stated that McGregor could potentially be exempt from testing. However, the likelihood of the UFC granting such an exemption remains highly improbable. Charles Oliveira emerged as a strong candidate to replace Chandler in the bout against McGregor. With his recent triumph and fan support, Oliveira presented himself as a worthy contender, offering fight enthusiasts an exhilarating matchup to look forward to.

While the future of the McGregor-Chandler showdown remains uncertain, the rise of Charles Oliveira as a potential replacement injects a fresh wave of intrigue and excitement. The MMA community awaits an official announcement on the final lineup of UFC 296.

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