Michael Chandler Calls Out Conor McGregor's Tactical Wait in MMA Limbo

In the realm of MMA, anticipation swirls around the potential return of two titans: Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor. However, as fans yearn for their clash, Chandler speculates that McGregor might be employing strategic delay tactics to evade a showdown with him, opting instead for what Chandler dubs as an "easier fight."

The buildup for their collision began during The Ultimate Fighter 31 season, where both Chandler and McGregor served as coaches. Despite the anticipation brewing during the season, the anticipated showdown between the coaches never materialized. McGregor's absence from the USADA testing pool contributed to the delay, hindering Chandler's prospects of facing him in the octagon.

"I think right now he’s trying to wait me out," Chandler stated on Steve-O’s Wild Ride! podcast, insinuating that McGregor might be strategically biding his time to avoid a showdown with a formidable opponent like Chandler. 

The delay has kept Chandler on the sidelines following his last fight against Dustin Poirier in November 2022, leaving him eager for a return to action.

McGregor's recent fights against Poirier, resulting in consecutive TKO losses, and a subsequent leg injury at UFC 264 have significantly stalled his momentum. Meanwhile, Chandler remains keen on facing McGregor but senses reluctance on McGregor's part, hinting that McGregor might opt for fights perceived as less challenging, such as a potential matchup against Nate Diaz.

Chandler's frustration with the delay is evident as he emphasizes the importance of McGregor fulfilling his commitment to their impending clash. The narrative surrounding McGregor's return to the octagon raises questions about his willingness to face Chandler, especially as McGregor maneuvers to reclaim his former status following a string of challenging outcomes in recent bouts.

"It looks really bad on everyone’s part if Conor comes back and doesn’t fight me," Chandler expressed. 

He perceives McGregor's potential avoidance as detrimental to both their legacies and the sport's credibility, urging McGregor to step up to the challenge and fulfill their impending showdown.

As the MMA world eagerly awaits McGregor's return and potential matchups, Chandler remains poised and ready, eager for a significant and career-defining showdown with the former champion. The ball now rests in McGregor's court as fans clamor for resolution in this captivating narrative of potential rivalry within the octagon.