Michael Chandler will attend UFC 303 – even if he doesn’t fight. ‘Iron’ was to face Conor McGregor in UFC 303’s PPV Event on June 29. But that fell through, along with pre-fight media obligations. In a historic first, ‘The Notorious’ had to pull out due to an undisclosed injury. Nevertheless, Chandler has other things in mind while waiting for the Irishman to recover.
The pair might find a rebooking later this year, and Ariel Helwani estimates the duo will fight in late August or September. Speaking Monday on “The Jim Rome Show” on X, “ CEO Dana White offered his full support behind Chandler. In the meantime, though, the American shocked everyone by announcing his appearance in “Sin City” for the main event at T-Mobile Arena.
UFC 303: just six days ago it was McGregor vs. Chandler, …It was my card when I signed the bout agreement, signed my name to a piece of paper that said I would be at UFC 303. I made a promise, I made a commitment and that commitment still stands…So yes, I will be at UFC 303. No, I will not be fighting at UFC 303. But I’m going to see through to my commitment.
Michael Chandler via IG reels (@mikechandlermma)
It’s been a long wait so far. Michael Chandler hasn’t actively participated since his November 2022 loss to Dustin Poirier. Conor McGregor’s return event would be his absolution and bolster his championship dreams. Moreover, UFC 303 already had “The McGregor effect” trademark, making a projected $20 million in gate pre-sales. The former Bellator champion and UFC still hopes to make this dream fight.
While he holds no disdain, Chandler’s “commitment” post is more than likely taking a shot at McGregor. This marks the first ‘Mac’ pullout in his UFC career. McGregor was on a three-year layoff from his 2021 TKO loss to Poirier. Chandler’s title ambition takes a further hit after the delay of his McGregor bout. Lately, he has received advice from multiple fighters to move away from the McGregor fight.
Israel Adesanya advises Michael Chandler after UFC 303 PPV scratch
McGregor had to withdraw from his return bout with Michael Chandler on June 29 at UFC 303 because of an undisclosed injury. The Team Kill Cliff FC lightweight hasn’t stepped foot inside the octagon since his UFC 281 loss at Madison Square Garden Arena. In light of the uncertainty surrounding his return, Israel Adesanya offers some advice.
Israel Adesanya, Michael Chandler (Source: IMAGO/Instagram)After his massive upset title loss at UFC 293, the Nigerian Zealander took a self-imposed sabbatical. Originally, Adesanya had planned to be on a layoff till 2027 but just could not go on a hiatus that long. With the uncertainty swirling around McGregor’s immediate return, he offers some insight.
I think that fight’s gonna happen regardless…Chandler should just take a fight [meanwhile], and that’s even better for him, win or lose, ’cause he’ll still get more reps. Take a fight regardless. That Conor fight’s always gonna be there ’cause they both faced each other on TUF, beef. … But just take another fight, I think.
Israel Adesanya via his Official Youtube Channel (@FreeStylebender)-Advertisement-
A downbeat Chandler posted a video message, admitting uncertainty regarding a rebooking date. Yet, the top brass has indicated that Michael Chandler vs. McGregor is the route to go once the latter recovers. The conclusion to the McGregor vs. Chandler saga will continue to exist due to their infamous TUF season 31. Hence, Adesanya advises him to work his reserves and maintain good standing in the meantime.
