Michael Chandler isn’t holding back in staking his claim as the top contender ahead of his anticipated bout with former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor.
The buzz around McGregor’s latest announcement reverberated across the combat sports world when he declared that his showdown with Chandler is set for UFC 303 on June 29th. Despite McGregor’s social media reveal, the UFC has yet to officially confirm the matchup.
Both McGregor and Chandler have been eagerly awaiting the chance to square off after months of speculation and waiting for the fight to materialize. While they previously crossed paths as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31 in 2023, fans are still awaiting the culmination of their highly-anticipated clash.
A while back, McGregor teased that the bout might take place at 185 pounds. However, it seems Chandler’s preferred weight has been accommodated.
Michael Chandler Responds to UFC 303 Conor McGregor Fight Announcement
Responding to McGregor’s latest tease about his return in a recent tweet, Chandler seemed to assert his terms, stating, “‘On the date he said,’ but at the weight I said…he will do as he’s told.”
Chandler’s last outing was a loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281 in 2022. Prior to that, he secured a memorable victory over former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson with a front-kick knockout.
Similarly, McGregor has been out of action since his defeat to Poirier, where he suffered a leg break at UFC 264, marking consecutive losses for the Irish superstar in 2021.
Should McGregor vs. Chandler come to fruition on June 29th, it promises to headline the UFC’s International Fight Week extravaganza in Las Vegas. Additionally, McGregor has expressed interest in another fight in September following his showdown with Chandler.
UFC International Fight Week Looms
The prolonged anticipation for the announcement of McGregor vs. Chandler seems to be nearing its conclusion. Initially expected to be revealed during UFC 300 fight week, UFC President Dana White has kept fans waiting for the official word.
Will the announcement be revealed tonight at UFC 300? Let us know in the comments!
Featured images credits to Embed from Getty Images
