It is no secret that Michael Chandler may have looked past Conor McGregor. After waiting over a year for the Irishman to return, the American called out champion Islam Makhachev for a fight. The callout may have upset other lightweights in the division. Some even think Chandler doesn’t deserve the fight at this point, having a 2-3 record in the UFC.
Coach Tim Welch and UFC bantamweight champ Sean O’Malley spoke about how Chandler vs. Makhachev. O’Malley believes the lightweight title fight remains the next biggest thing if the McGregor bout doesn’t pan out. Despite criticism about Chandler’s worthiness, ‘Suga’ can see Chandler doing well against Makhachev.
Islam title fight is the next biggest thing for him (Michael Chandler). Chandler could very well beat Islam. He could throw a left hand and it could hit him on his chin.
Sean O’ Malley on the TimboSugarShow
Michael Chandler is not the first in line for the title shot. The top-ranked lightweight, Arman Tsarukyan, seems like the rightful opponent to take on the Dagestani for the title. Tsarukyan earned the shot after defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. Nevertheless, bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley believes that ‘Iron’ has a solid chance against Islam Makhachev.
Chandler is a seasoned MMA veteran, but his time in the UFC has been less than successful. He hasn’t won a fight in over two years and has remained inactive for more than one. His matchup against Conor McGregor marked the pinnacle of his career after two years of absence. However, this matchup was best not only for Chander but for the Irishman as well.
Tim Welch claims Michael Chandler remains the only option for Conor McGregor
Conor McGregor has not fought since his defeat against Dustin Poirier, which resulted in a severe leg break for the Irishman. It remains uncertain how sharp his skills are after being away from the sport for the last three years. Meanwhile, Chandler has emerged as one of the most exciting fighters in the 155-pound division.
Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler (via X)Other than Chandler, not many fighters can welcome McGregor back. The only other exciting name is Charles Oliveira. Nevertheless, McGregor has not responded to Oliveira’s callout. As such, Tim Welch, coach of Sean O’Malley, suggests that Michael Chandler would make an ideal adversary for Conor McGregor’s much-anticipated comeback to the octagon.
I mean there’s not really anyone else for Conor to really battle right now than Chandler.
Tim Welch on the TimboSugarShow
Justin Gaethje remains on a hiatus after UFC 300 KO loss, and Dustin Poirier remains on the cusp of retirement. The list of popular names stops there. The rescheduled fight date for McGregor vs. Chandler has not been announced yet. It will likely happen in the next couple of months. The Irishman has returned to active training after the toe injury. As such, the blockbuster fight could happen soon.
