The UFC lightweight division is buzzing with intrigue, thanks to Chael Sonnen‘s recent comments. The outspoken former fighter has thrown a curveball into the Michael Chandler and Islam Makhachev saga. Sonnen believes there’s more to the UFC’s offer than meets the eye.
According to Sonnen, the UFC is sending Chandler a subtle message. Sonnen suggested the UFC is hinting that by offering Chandler a fight with Islam Makhachev. This could mean a probable end for the Conor McGregor fight.
Don’t make that mistake… But I also believe that if we sign Chandler vs. Islam, we can accept that it is akin to the retirement announcement of Conor McGregor.
Chael Sonnen via his YouTube channel
The potential Chandler-McGregor bout has been teased for what feels like eons. They were scheduled to fight at UFC 303 but Conor McGregor had to withdraw due to a toe injury. Now, a potential fight is rumored to be held at the Sphere in September, but nothing is officially confirmed.
Chandler had recently stated that the UFC had offered him a fight for the title against Islam Makhachev. He even stated that he would love to fight Makahachev in October if McGregor was still unavailable till September. Given that Arman Tsarukyan is on suspension and most top lightweights are booked or recovering, this fight could make sense. But Chael’s assessment gives an insight into the long-standing unresolved potential bout between McGregor and Michael Chandler.
Chael Sonnen reveals Charles Oliviera’s reluctance to rematch Islam Makhachev
The UFC lightweight division is never short on drama. Chael Sonnen, the outspoken MMA analyst has made a bold claim about former champion, Charles Oliveira. According to Sonnen, Oliveira is less than eager to face current champ Islam Makhachev again.
Chael Sonnen isn’t positive about Charles Oliveira’s wish to rematch Islam Makhachev (via MMA Fighting)Sonnen, known for his colorful commentary, didn’t mince words in a recent podcast episode. He stated that Oliveira made it very clear that he didn’t want to fight Makhachev. The backdrop to this claim is Oliveira’s recent history with Makhachev. Their first encounter at UFC 280 saw Oliveira lose his title.
A rematch was scheduled for UFC 294, but Oliveira withdrew due to a cut. Sonnen, in his typical fashion, downplayed the injury as a “paper cut.” Adding intrigue to the mix, Sonnen pointed out recent interviews with Oliveira and his manager. Both reportedly expressed interest in fighting Conor McGregor over Makhachev if given the choice.
Charles Oliviera’s coach recently called dibs on the fight against Islam Makhachev next, given the top lightweights aren’t available at the moment. Arman Tsarkuyan is suspended. Justin Gaethje is recovering from his KO loss at UFC 300. Dustin Poirier just got a title shot at UFC 302. This leaves Oliviera in a very advantageous position. But Chael Sonnen’s comments open up this prospect for speculation.
