Conor McGregor could return to face Michael Chandler in the summer of next year.
That is according to Dana White. Following McGregor’s recent enrollment into USADA, the MMA fighter must provide two negative samples over a period of six months before he can compete. The timeline, therefore, ruled out a return for this year, with 2024 looking likely. Those comments did not sit well with McGregor, who was very vocal about how he had been prevented from fighting, given he has not fought since his defeat to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 after suffering from a leg injury.
“I feel like I’ve been robbed of my livelihood. I’m not going to complain, but I’m ready! I wanted to announce the fight for Dec. 16, but that’s not going to happen. It doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. I’m going to keep doing my thing, so I’ll see you soon. Hopefully early next year,” McGregor said
A fight against Chandler is most likely, given their rivalry as coaches on the TUF 31 series. Chandler managed to get the better of McGregor, as his fighters won most of the bouts. Although that may have been the case, McGregor did win the battle between the coaches. With that narrative in place, a fight could take place in the summer.
“Talked to him yesterday, too. He’s good. He’s ready. He wants the [fight]. He’s gotta sit out the six months to get back into their drug testing pool. Realistically, we could be looking at him next summer,” White stated
Reaction
Lmaooo get outta here. Dana been saying conor returning next summer for the last two years
— iAMinvisible (@funnyhunnids) November 11, 2023
It was supposed to be December, then April and now the summer lol
— Bodhi (@ABraveLilWaffle) November 11, 2023
They’re trying to hold back the goat 🤦🏽♂️
— Mask 🙁 🇧🇷. (@margiela_mask) November 11, 2023