Michael Chandler remains optimistic about fighting Conor McGregor, despite waiting over two years for the bout to be scheduled.
Their fight was initially anticipated after they coached opposite each other on The Ultimate Fighter season 31 in 2023. The fight was scheduled for June of the following year at UFC 303, but McGregor had to pull out due to a toe injury.
Since then, Chandler has competed twice, reportedly sacrificing potentially peak career years while awaiting the McGregor bout. His recent fights resulted in losses, first to Charles Oliveira and then a brutal stoppage defeat against Paddy Pimblett.
Michael Chandler Reacts to Conor McGregor`s Idea of a White House Fight
This week, former President Donald Trump announced plans for the UFC to host a championship event on the White House lawn next year. This news generated significant interest among prominent fighters, such as Jon Jones (who has apparently abandoned retirement) and Conor McGregor.
McGregor has not competed since summer 2021, despite being medically cleared for a considerable time and expressing a desire to return. Following Trump`s announcement, he repeatedly posted on social media about fighting at the White House.
He even shared an AI-generated image depicting him and Chandler facing each other, hinting that their long-awaited fight could take place there. Chandler also seemed enthusiastic, sharing the image and polling his followers.
“Anybody fancy a good old-fashioned, passionate red, white and blue ass-whooping on the lawn of the White House?” Chandler asked. Fans have humorously suggested that the prolonged wait for the McGregor fight might be affecting him.
Conor McGregor Sees White House Event as Potential Catalyst for Return
McGregor appears enthusiastic about this unique chance to fight outside the typical Las Vegas venue and compete in a novel setting. He famously headlined the UFC`s first event in New York years ago and seems eager to break new ground for the sport again.
In a recent message, McGregor indicated that prior comeback attempts hadn`t fully engaged him, but the possibility of fighting at the White House could provide the proper motivation. He wrote, “Accuracy is final,” and also revealed he has rare 20/10 vision in one eye.
He continued, “I`ve most KOs of all by a long shot and I`ve been chilling on my yachts the last 4 years. To return at the White House with my sniper accuracy would be a very intriguing offer and would bring me back in to focus on my return correctly. Vote McGregor.”
