Islam makhachev: “I don't think Conor wants to fight”

Islam Makhachev, the current UFC Lightweight Champion, is skeptical about Conor McGregor's plans for his comeback fight in 2023.

In UFC 284, Makhachev faced Alexander Volkanovski to defend the lightweight title. He is awaiting his upcoming championship defence, which could be against the winner of Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush.

Makhachev, a prominent prodigy of Khabib Nurmagomedov, is vying for the top slot in terms of weight class. He hopes to take the top spot away from Nurmagomedov and establish his own rule.

Makhachev questioned McGregor's return to the UFC in a recent interview with the Weighing In podcast.

"I don't think Conor wants to fight," Makhachev said. "He's drinking too much, smoking all day...everybody forgot him since he fought last time...maybe if he beats Chandler, they're gonna try to push him to make 155, and I know they want to give him a title shot."

The weight at which McGregor and Chandler square off is yet unknown, but both competitors are eager for a chance at retribution following recent defeats.

Even though McGregor may not be the same fighter he once was, he is still one of the most well-known figures in combat sports. In this upcoming bout with Chandler, he will have the chance to show that he is capable of rolling back to an elite fighter.