The highly anticipated UFC 303 main event has put fight fans through the wringer. The fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler seems to be in jeopardy once again. According to top MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, the positivity surrounding the blockbuster bout has vanished into thin air.
Ariel Helwani recently talked about this on his show, The MMA Hour. As per him, the UFC 303 main event is still in jeopardy. He revealed that UFC was scrambling to save the main event of this blockbuster card. As such, some other fight could become the main event of UFC 303.
 The positivity that I talked about exactly one week ago from today is nowhere to be found I would say this fight is very much in limbo. I would say that it’s hanging on, and I would say the UFC is working very, very hard right now to figure out a plan B.
Ariel Helwani via The MMA Hour
Just last week, Helwani expressed great optimism about the status of the fight. Michael Chandler’s comments about the fight still being on schedule also dissipated the cancellation rumors. Now, Helwani claimed the UFC remains on the lookout for a compelling fight to replace McGregor vs. Chandler, considering the negative aura surrounding the fight.
The Irishman’s acting commitments and recovery delayed his octagon appearances. But this time, the uncertainty has reached new heights. McGregor or the UFC has yet to say anything official about the main event. Only time will tell if Conor McGregor’s 3-year layoff from the octagon will finally end on June 29. As of now, the blockbuster PPV remains in trouble.Â
Chael Sonnen gives an update on the current gate for UFC 303 headlined by Conor McGregor
The combat sports world held its breath over the potential derailment of UFC 303’s highly-anticipated main event. Another staggering figure has emerged, the gate for the marquee show. According to none other than MMA legend Chael Sonnen, the current gate stands at a jaw-dropping $23 million.
Chael Sonnen chimed in on UFC 303 gate (via Sports Illustrated/ LinkedIn)Sonnen, known for his outspoken personality and sharp business acumen, might have exaggerated the gate number during his appearance on The MMA Hour. Amidst the uncertainties surrounding the Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler showdown, the former UFC fighter provided an idea of the magnitude of this fight.
He’s [Conor McGregor] got $23 million waiting in the box office right now and it’s not sold out. $23 million gives you the assumption it’s sold out. It’s not. He can end up with a $28 million gate.
Chael Sonnen via The MMA Hour
If Sonnen’s claim holds true, UFC 303 headlining McGregor would beat the previous highest record by a considerable margin. This stands at $17.7 million for McGregor’s fight against Eddie Alvarez. Such a staggering figure is a testament to the drawing power of McGregor, the UFC’s biggest star.
