UFC lightweight, Michael Chandler, has stated that he’s expecting a ‘weaker Conor McGregor when they finally face-off in the UFC 303 main event in June.
Their bout, which was finally announced in the aftermath of UFC 300, will out an end to their rivalry which has been brewing since the events of The Ultimate Fighter season 31, which took place last year. Both men have had to deal with inactivity since then, for several different reasons.
McGregor has yet to appear inside the octagon since his leg break that he suffered against Dustin Poirier in 2021. Whilst Chandler, has been waiting patiently for his opportunity to face the former double champ.
Michael Chandler Expecting Weak Conor McGregor at UFC 303
“Iron” Mike’s decision to remain in exile has been criticised by several of his colleagues. However, many understand the financial benefit for anyone who enters the cage with McGregor and therefore justify it. Whether you argue that choice may backfire, with ‘ring-rust’ becoming a regular theme, Chandler has expressed his belief that the Irishman will come into their fight weaker as a result of his injury.
“I don’t need to get into a firefight with a guy who has got a bigger rifle than me. I think I hit harder than he does. His time out of the cage has lent itself to his timing not being what it used to be, his movement not being what it used to be, his reflexes not being what they used to be. He’s been out of the cage three years by the time we fight. …Go out there and get the finish and just absolutely outclass and dominate him,” said Chandler.
How do you see the fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler? Has Chandler waited too long, or is Conor’s time at the top officially over? Let us know!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
