The highly anticipated fight between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor has been officially called off. Interestingly, Chandler had to wait for almost two years to face off against the ‘Notorious’. ‘Iron’ recently clarified that he has no regrets after that two-year wait.
Michael Chandler faced intense scrutiny for putting his career on hold to pursue a fight with Conor McGregor. Many in the community believed that Chandler was simply seeking a big payday fight and would regret his decision when the McGregor fight didn’t materialize. However, the Iron disagreed, feeling that taking time off was necessary for him.
I needed some time away from the sport… I don’t have any regrets, it was always supposed to be I guess. You can always look back and have 20-20 vision saying I wish I would’ve done this or I wish this would’ve worked out differently. I’m at peace where I am…
Michael Chandler via MMAFighting
🫡Michael Chandler says he has no regrets about waiting two years for the Conor McGregor fight, and believes the time off has given him “a new lease on life and a new love for the sport.”
“I don’t have any regrets because this was the way it was always supposed to be I… pic.twitter.com/nfKPGOKGac
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) September 19, 2024
As days passed by, Chandler’s patience level took a toll on him and he finally decided to ditch the Irishman. Recently, the UFC officially booked Michael Chandler against Charles Oliveira for the co-main event of UFC 309. Interestingly, this announcement drew a furious reaction from McGregor. As such, he even went on his usual X tirade and condemned the fight. Similarly, several other individuals in the community have given their thoughts on this matchup, including a UFC legend.
UFC legend Chael Sonnen considers the Charles Oliveira fight a ‘tough night out’ for Michael Chandler
Michael Chandler joined the UFC with a strong reputation as a former Bellator champion. He made a successful debut against Dan Hooker and then faced Oliveira for the vacant UFC lightweight title at UFC 262. Unfortunately, Chandler was unable to claim the title. Interestingly, now he is set to face Oliveira again. However, Chael Sonnen believes that Chandler has a tough road ahead to reframe his career.
Sonnen also draws out another intriguing factor for this. Initially, the fight between Chandler and McGregor was set for 170 lbs. Interestingly, Oliveira fights at 155 lbs and would face the former Bellator champ in the same weight class. Sonnen feels that this would be an additional burden on Chandler. Moreover, after a detailed analysis, the UFC legend also thinks Oliveira would be a favorite in this fight.
Charles Oliveira is a rough night out. Not to mention, it’s a match they’ve already done. You don’t get better at a sport by not doing it. Chandler’s been on the side lines waiting to do it… I like that he’s back. It’s a very tough night out (for Chandler)…
Chael Sonnen via Good Guy/ Bad Guy on ESPN MMA (Check from 19:50)
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Per Chael Sonnen, a matchup against Paddy Pimblett would have been best for Chandler. Moreover, he even mentions the Charles Oliveira fight is a massive step up. As such, Chandler would be an underdog in that matchup. However, that’s the thing about this sport, everyone has their speculations. Now, it remains to be seen how Chandler performs on November 17 at Madison Square Garden.
