McGregor vs. Chandler: The Fight That Won't Die?

Conor McGregor's return to the octagon at UFC 329 was unfortunately short-lived. The bout against Max Holloway, McGregor's first since July 2021, ended quickly due to a leg injury sustained by McGregor early in the contest, forcing him to withdraw. This setback has once again cast doubt on his fighting future and the fulfillment of his last UFC contract.

Fellow fighter Israel Adesanya expressed his thoughts on McGregor's situation, suggesting that if McGregor decides to compete again, Michael Chandler would be the most fitting opponent. Chandler, a former Bellator champion, has been vying for a fight against McGregor since joining the UFC in 2021. Their bout was initially slated for UFC 303 in June 2024, but McGregor's withdrawal due to injury derailed those plans, leaving Chandler waiting for two years.

Adesanya believes McGregor owes Chandler this fight, given the prolonged pursuit and the two years Chandler spent waiting. He posited that this matchup would allow them to settle their "heat" and potentially serve as McGregor's final fight. While McGregor's star power offers many opponent options, his recovery timeline and current form might influence the UFC's decision, with Chandler presenting a potentially winnable fight.