Conor McGregor announced his return to the UFC with a proposal against Michael Chandler slated for June 29 in Las Vegas.
As noted by ESPN’s Brett Okamoto, a UFC International official confirmation is still pending from both the UFC and Chandler. Adding to the excitement, Conor McGregor hinted that the fight is set for 185 pounds, a departure from the usual 155-pound weight class for both McGregor and Chandler, introducing an exciting element to the upcoming event.
Conor McGregor, known for his remarkable 22-6 record, has been out of the Octagon since his 2021 fight against Dustin Poirier, where he sustained a leg injury. His absence was also influenced by a regulatory issue with the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, resulting in a dispute involving McGregor, the UFC, and USADA.
On the other side, Michael Chandler, at 37 years old with a 23-8 record, is coming off a loss to Poirier in 2022. With three losses in his last four fights, Chandler is at a pivotal point in his career. In a conversation with ESPN, Chandler expressed enthusiasm about the fight and showed a flexible stance on the weight class challenge, emphasizing his preparedness for any weight category.
A Clash of Titans and Anticipation Build-Up
The potential match between McGregor and Chandler is not just a contest of skills; it also marks the culmination of their recent roles as opposing coaches on “The Ultimate Fighter.”
The rumours surrounding this matchup have stirred considerable excitement among UFC enthusiasts. As the community awaits formal confirmation, the proposed McGregor-Chandler fight promises to be a sensational highlight of International Fight Week, showcasing a high-stakes battle between two seasoned fighters eager to reassert their prowess in the sport.