Despite numerous setbacks, Conor McGregor remains open to a future fight with Michael Chandler, although his return to the octagon is now expected in 2025, and his plans post-UFC remain uncertain.
Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler might not be dead just yet.
The road to that matchup has seen numerous bumps over the course of the past two years. The rivals served as opposing coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 32 and then were scheduled for UFC 303 this past June. But their fight fell through when McGregor withdrew due to injury.
Chandler has since been booked for a rematch with Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 on Nov. 16. As for McGregor, he and UFC CEO Dana White finally seem to agree that “The Notorious” won’t be seen in the octagon again until next year.
“It will be 2025,” McGregor said in an interview with DAZN during the Joshua vs. Dubois broadcast. “We’ll see.” My opponent, Chandler, has gotten matched. It is what it is. I just take it on board and rock on.
My job? Go to the gym, stay in shape. One thing’s for sure: whenever and wherever it is, I’ll be 100 percent ready. That’s all I can focus on right now.
With Chandler occupied for the moment, McGregor needs to set his sights on a new opponent. While keeping his options open, he wants it known that Chandler isn’t out of the picture.
“Who knows nowadays?” McGregor said. “It doesn’t matter, it does not matter. Just as long as I can get back, whoever.”
I’d like it to be Chandler. I want to get that squared away. I wish him well against Oliveira, but let’s see how it goes.
McGregor, 36, has spoken openly about having only two fights left on his UFC contract. Once those bouts are completed, he’ll be free to pursue any other combat sports interests he wants.
Besides being a member of the UFC roster, McGregor also serves as a part owner of BKFC, a bare-knuckle boxing promotion he’s expressed interest in competing for as well.
All he can say for sure is that he’d like to conclude his time with the UFC in 2025. After that? Anybody’s guess what MMA’s biggest draw will do next.
“I must,” McGregor said. “It’s the promised land, so we’ll see.”
No one knows what happens next. I’m the highest-generating fighter on planet Earth right now in today’s space and what happens afterward? As a free agent? Not so sure.