When Dana White announced the Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler bout in February, fans anticipated an explosive leadup especially considering a season of TUF was involved.
However, the reality has turned out to be rather disappointing. McGregor vs Chandler appears to be falling apart, and a good chunk of the MMA community seems quite frustrated.
Several episodes of The Ultimate Fighter 31, featuring Conor and Michael, have already aired. Yet, there is no indication of the Irishman entering the USADA testing pool.
Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler may never come to fruition
As per the anti-doping agency’s rules, a fighter must undergo testing for six months before they can compete. Consequently, it is evident that ‘The Notorious’ won’t be eligible to fight until the end of 2023.
Conor McGregor has 48 hours left to enter the USADA testing pool if he's going to fight at UFC 296 which is the final PPV of the year.
If he doesn't enter 6 month testing pool by Friday, he will not be fighting in 2023 per the rules of USADA. pic.twitter.com/0l8muMBHdv
— Verdict (@VerdictMMA) June 14, 2023
In the midst of this controversy, Chandler disclosed a fascinating twist that left him seething with frustration. June 16th marked the deadline for McGregor to re-enter the testing pool in order to fight in a 2023 pay-per-view event. However, days have passed since the deadline, and McGregor has taken no action.
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
‘Iron’ recently posted a video on social media, documenting an unexpected visit from USADA to his doorstep. In the video, Chandler expressed his annoyance with the anti-doping agency’s desire to test him amidst this controversy.
Micheal Chandler’s reaction to Conor McGregor ducking to fight him
The former Bellator champion found it amusing that he was being tested while his potential opponent was not.
No joke… WHERE THE FOOK IS THAT GUY? pic.twitter.com/pX5RmOFSdK
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) June 21, 2023
“Conor’s not in USADA. 179 days left until December 16th, which is supposed to be the last PPV of the year. And comically, USADA shows up to my door, today, to add insult to injury. Where you at boy?” said Iron.
In the event that the matchup against ‘Mystic Mac’ falls through, one potential option could be Arman Tsarukyan. Following his victory at UFC Vegas 75, Tsarukyan expressed his eagerness to step inside the octagon with the highly regarded Michael.
Good sparring today at Church Street with @dillondanis. NYC Underground Kings, word to Eddie. You think you know. You have no idea. Onwards we go! #smile #check #soon 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ilHemUEnVY
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) June 21, 2023
Additionally, the lightweight fighter holds the belief that a showdown between Chandler and McGregor is unlikely to materialize. He stated, “I have a few names. Honestly, I want to fight Michael because he’s a big name, and I don’t think Conor is going to fight. That fight seems to be off the table.”
However, Chandler may not have many options within the top 5 rankings and might have to consider facing opponents ranked below him. If the McGregor fight fails to materialize, it could leave him in a state of uncertainty within the 155-pound division.
Are you a Conor fan? Do you think the Irish will ever fight for UFC again? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
