UFC President Dana White has confirmed that Michael Chandler will not be Conor McGregor’s next opponent, shaking up previously anticipated plans.
For nearly two years, fans have been eagerly awaiting the high-profile showdown between Chandler and McGregor. The bout was initially scheduled for UFC 303 in June, following a season where the two were coaches on The Ultimate Fighter. However, McGregor pulled out just weeks before the event, citing a toe injury. The fight was then postponed with hopes of rescheduling.
But now, it seems the anticipated matchup may not materialize at all. Dana White revealed to Spinning Backfist that Chandler has decided he will no longer wait for McGregor and is ready to fight someone else.
When asked if Chandler would still be McGregor’s opponent, White replied, “No. No. Chandler said, ‘I’m done waiting. I want to fight.’”
Chandler did not immediately respond to the news when contacted by MMA Fighting.
McGregor had previously assured that the fight would take place in 2024, but White has cast doubt on this timeline. Suggesting that McGregor’s return might be pushed to early 2025. Meanwhile, Chandler hinted at a potential fight announcement earlier this month, though he did not reveal any details about his next opponent.
Chandler’s last fight was a loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281, nearly two years ago. McGregor has been sidelined for over three-years following a severe leg injury sustained during his fight with Poirier at UFC-264.
UPDATE
McGregor responded to White’s announcement via social media, taking a jab at Chandler and expressing frustration over the delay. He wrote, “Chandler saw that takedown getting stuffed and mauled and officially dipped. Little fat pssy. I’m at the Hard Rock Hotel in Florida for the bare knuckle tonight. Got tested earlier today by DFSI. Give me my fcking date!”
With the future of the Chandler vs. McGregor fight uncertain, fans are left wondering who will be next for both fighters.
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