According to sources, Conor McGregor, the former UFC lightweight and featherweight champion, may not fight this year after failing to fulfill the USADA time frame. After a two-year absence, ‘The Notorious’ was due to return this year against Michael Chandler. He was slated to headline a pay-per-view later this year after finishing a season of The Ultimate Fighter with Chandler.
Despite not being formally confirmed, considering McGregor’s comeback, the bout garnered a lot of buzz. Dana White also has previously spoken about it. Unfortunately, it appears that the fight will not take place.
Why Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler might not happen?
A UFC fighter must enter the USADA testing pool at least six months before fighting. McGregor was withdrawn from the testing pool after breaking his leg in 2021 and has not been tested since.
‘The Notorious’ has gained a lot of weight while healing from his injuries. As a result, many people’s eyebrows were raised. His deadline to enroll in the program in order to compete this year was June 16, 2023.
Conor did not meet USADA deadline for a test sample. As a result, he is unable to fight in 2023 and his fight vs Michael Chandler may never happen. pic.twitter.com/eKRbuLeObU
— MMA UNCENSORED (@MMAUNCENSORED1) June 20, 2023
However, according to MMA Uncensored, the former UFC champion has not yet entered the pool. As a result, his duel against Michael Chandler is at risk. However, fans will have to wait for an official declaration on the matter.
Many fans will be disappointed if McGregor does not return this year. Michael Chandler, who is currently training for one of the greatest fights of his career, will also be upset. However, if the Conor McGregor bout does not take place this year, Chandler appears to have a name he can face inside the cage.
Arman Tsarukyan Calls Out Chandler and says the McGregor fight is Over
Arman Tsarukyan called out Michael Chandler next after grabbing a third-round knockout victory at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. Ranked at number eight in the lightweight division, Tsarukyan made it clear that he wants someone from the top five after two straight wins.
In the post-fight press conference, Tsarukyan stated that Beneil Dariush won’t be able to make it for October’s UFC 294 event in Abu Dhabi after his loss this month. He further added that, given McGregor’s recent state, he doesn’t think the fight will happen this year.
Thus, the lightweight star said Michael Chandler would be a viable option for him. Although it seems like a good match-up, nothing can be said as of now.
What do you guys think about Arman Tsarukyan’s call out? Do you guys think Chandler vs. McGregor will happen?
