Michael Chandler suffered disappointment when Conor McGregor withdrew from their schedule at UFC 303. The MMA community pitied Chandler as the former Bellator lightweight champion, who had waited almost two years to fight McGregor. Even Islam Makhachev, the lightweight UFC champion and pound-for-pound king, trolled the 38-year-old American on social media.
McGregor Injury Opens Door for Chandler
Interestingly, Michael Chandler revealed he has options. Even though he missed the McGregor fight for enormous financial benefits, the American can become the undisputed lightweight champion. With McGregor out for the next couple of months, the UFC has offered Chandler a title shot, particularly as Arman Tsarukyan, the number one contender, faces suspension.
“I’ve been offered @MAKHACHEVMMA in October – but if @TheNotoriousMMA little pinky toe is ready by Sept, let’s do sphere. Biggest sporting event in history of sports!!!! @RiyadhSeason #ufc306,” Chandler tweeted on X, still willing to fight the “Notorious” Conor McGregor over the undisputed lightweight champion.
The UFC’s presumed plan was for Makhachev to defend the title against Arman Tsarukyan. However, Tsarukyan had punched a fan when he walked out at UFC 300. The Nevada State Athletic Commission has suspended Tsarukyan for 9 months. Dustin Poirier had expressed interest in fighting Makhachev again, but the UFC looks to have other plans.
Nevertheless, Dana White has confirmed McGregor won’t fight from August to October. With Jon Jones potentially headlining UFC 309 in November, UFC 310 in December seems the only available date for McGregor’s return. Therefore, fighting Islam Makhachev at UFC 308 is the best option for the American, as he can match the Russian’s offensive wrestling.
