In recent months, there have been several developments regarding the possible fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler. After weeks of anticipation, Chandler has decided to move on from that matchup and is now scheduled to face Charles Oliveira. Recently, the American fighter commented again on this topic.
Chandler recently participated in an interview session with the New York Post Sports. During the interview, the former Bellator champion talked about his upcoming fight with Oliveira. He emphasized that this fight with the Brazilian fighter is the best opportunity he has following the cancellation of the McGregor fight.
It’s not a Conor (McGregor) fight, but if you think of the next best thing, this is definitely it. And now, we’re working toward the title…
Michael Chandler via New York Post Sports
The talks regarding the potential fight between McGregor and Chandler surfaced more than a year ago. The UFC even booked them to face each other at UFC 303. However, following certain obligations from McGregor’s side, the fight was called off. After continuous delays in the fight, Chandler grew restless and decided to move on and face Oliveira. In fact, the Irishman had quite a reaction to that news.
⚡️Michael Chandler explains why he didn’t wait for Conor McGregor and accepted the fight with Charles Oliveira:
“It’s not a Conor fight, but if you think of the next best thing, this is definitely it. And now we’re working toward the title.”
🎥 @nypostsports ▫️ pic.twitter.com/RSeoxQx0UN
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) November 4, 2024
McGregor did not hold back, as he vehemently criticized Chandler for failing to stand by his words and engage in a fight with him. Despite the Irishman’s harsh comments, Chandler appeared unfazed and chose not to dwell on the Irishman’s remarks. Currently, his focus is firmly set on his upcoming rematch against Oliveira. As such, the former Bellator champion took to his socials, outlining his ambitious plans for the future that lies ahead.
Michael Chandler promises the MMA community exciting times in the future
Michael Chandler is a veteran of MMA, having made his professional debut in 2009. Early in his career, he gained fame for his outstanding performances in Bellator MMA. After an impressive run with Bellator, the UFC signed Chandler, providing him with an opportunity to elevate his status even further. He delivered remarkable performances after joining the promotion, notably in his last fight against Charles Oliveira.
After the fight with Oliveira, Chandler’s performance in the promotion began to decline, winning only one out of his last three bouts. As a result, enthusiasm for his fights within the UFC community has waned. In response, Chandler recently promised MMA fans that he would strive to become exceptional moving forward.
What you will see Nov. 16 will be something you have never seen from me. Something exceptional. Something mind blowing. Champ in 2025. #ufc309
Michael Chandler via X (MikeChandlerMMA)
What you will see Nov. 16 will be something you have never seen from me. Something exceptional. Something mind blowing. Champ in 2025. #ufc309
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) November 4, 2024
Chandler’s run for glory begins at UFC 309, where he aims to avenge his previous loss to Oliveira. Furthermore, the American fighter appears confident that he is on the verge of a title shot and believes he will eventually become the champion in 2025. However, for that, it remains to be seen how his match against Oliveira will unfold at Madison Square Garden in a few days.
