Conor McGregor is undoubtedly one of the UFC’s biggest cash cows. Fighting him doesn’t just fill an opponent’s pockets and boosts the company’s bank balance, bringing massive attention and fame. A prime example is Khabib Nurmagomedov—while Khabib is a legendary fighter, his rise to superstardom was mainly due to his fight with McGregor. This is also why Michael Chandler has relentlessly called McGregor out for the past two years. Even after his loss at UFC 309, Chandler continues to pursue that lucrative showdown.
Michael Chandler entered UFC 309 with a lot of hype after nearly two years of intense preparation. He looked impressive during his fight with Charles Oliveira, even coming close to knocking out “Do Bronx.” However, Oliveira’s grappling and relentless pressure took control early on and dominated much of the fight. Despite Chandler’s strong finish, Oliveira maintained control throughout, proving why he’s considered one of the top fighters in the division.
After the loss, Chandler’s adrenaline-pumped 5th-round performance, featuring two WWE-style slams, kept fans on their feet. He quickly called out Max Holloway for the BMF belt and seized the chance to challenge McGregor, keeping his name front and center in the hunt for the next big fight.
Calling out McGregor, he said, “I’m not calling out Islam as Charles is doing it next. Maybe Max Holloway for the BMF belt or Conor McGregor if you can ever get yourself back in order. Well us being professionals keeping the octagon warm but wondering where you were Conor. So come and beat me if you can.”
😁 🇮🇪 Michael Chandler makes his 3rd callout of Conor Mcgregor. pic.twitter.com/lSxJCtpxEB
— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) November 17, 2024
When Will Conor McGregor Return to the UFC?
McGregor is currently dealing with his court case, battling serious allegations. Everything hinges on the outcome—if he clears his name and gets past these legal troubles, he’s set to return to the UFC as planned in 2025. When asked about McGregor’s return and potential opponents, Dana White revealed that McGregor is likely to make his comeback in late 2025. He added that there’s still plenty of time before then to figure out his matchups.
He stated, “Conor is going to come back in late 2025, so there is a lot of time for us to work out who is going to fight Conor. There is no doubt Conor wants to fight, he hits me up all the time.”
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UFC boss White has clarified that McGregor is serious about his comeback. The big question remains: who will he fight when he returns in late 2025?
Also Read: UFC 309: Jon Jones OBLITERATES Miocic To Retain Undefeated Record
