The UFC’s hold over the sport of mixed martial arts is second to none. As such, fight fans are always in anticipation of the fight cards. Luckily for those who like to keep track of upcoming events, Ariel Helwani has revealed a rough schedule regarding the remaining pay-per-view cards of the year. While these plans aren’t set in stone, they’re enough to get fans buzzing.
The first is the UFC 306 in September. Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili will fight for the Bantamweight title at The Sphere in Las Vegas. October brings us UFC 307, featuring Ilia Topuria defending his title against Max Holloway.
Not to be outdone, UFC 308 heads to Abu Dhabi in late October. Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan are set for a highly anticipated rematch, this time for the lightweight title on the line. November showcases the much-delayed clash between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic at MSG for the heavyweight title.
To cap off the year, there is the long-awaited return of Conor McGregor. This comes after McGregor withdrew from their UFC 303 clash due to a toe injury. The Irishman could now potentially face Michael Chandler at UFC 310 in Las Vegas by the end of the year.
Ariel Helwani pours cold water over Michael Chandler’s title aspirations
Michael Chandler’s recent claim has hit a snag. Ariel Helwani has stepped in to set the record straight. Chandler recently hinted at a potential lightweight title shot against Islam Makhachev. But Helwani, known for his insider knowledge, isn’t buying it.
According to Helwani, the real plan is still for Islam Makhachev to face Arman Tsarukyan. He further stated that the promotion is still hoping to book him against Conor McGregor.
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“But the plan is still Arman Tsarukyan against Islam Makhachev and the hope is still that we’re going to get Conor [McGregor] vs. Chandler. The date is TBD.”
Ariel Helwani via The MMA Hour
Helwani’s insights offer a glimpse behind the curtain of UFC matchmaking. For Chandler, this doesn’t mean his title dreams are dead. But it does suggest he might need to be patient.
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