Chandler still holding out for McGregor bout

Despite the cancellation of the much-awaited showdown between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor at UFC 303, the American is still optimistic that the fight will happen and that McGregor will be his next opponent. 

This is following Chandler’s recent post on social media where he said he was offered a title fight against current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, but it appears he is still a lot more interested in fighting McGregor. 

The fight with McGregor was cancelled at the last minute after the Irishman had to pull out due to a broken toe injury. Their fixture, which was scheduled as the main event for UFC 303, was replaced by Pereira vs. Prochazka, which Alex Pereira won by a TKO in the second round. 

Chandler took to Twitter on Tuesday to inform his followers that he was looking forward to facing McGregor above anything else: “I’ve been offered @MAKHACHEVMMA in October – but if @TheNotoriousMMA little pinky toe is ready by Sept, let’s do sphere. Biggest sporting event in history of sports!!!! @RiyadhSeason #ufc306.”

 Despite having not stepped in the octagon since 2022, Chandler seems not to be in a hurry to fight anyone, especially as he has his sight set on McGregor and would only back down after he has fought him. Their UFC 303 bout was well talked about, and a lot of fans of the sport were hyped to see it happen, as it was also supposed to be McGregor’s first fight in years. Even though it was not a title fight, the buildup to it was quite as intense, if not more, and McGregor’s toe situation ruined a good thing. 

 But all hope is not lost, as plans may be underway for a new date. This was hinted at by McGregor himself when he was reacting to a news by Alex Pereira, who gave props to him. McGregor said “Real recognize real. Excited to secure my new date.” There is a strong possibility the “new date” may be referring to his fight with Chandler, meaning we might be getting an official announcement any day now.