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A former UFC fighter recently explained why he believes Conor McGregor will likely never step into the octagon against Michael Chandler. 'Iron' has remained steadfast in pursuing a bout with McGregor for over a year. In contrast, 'The Notorious' has often been spotted indulging in his lavish lifestyle.
Chandler has since redirected his attention. He's now preparing for a rematch against Charles Oliveira in a five-round co-main event at UFC 309, scheduled for Nov. 16 at Madison Square Garden.
Although the former Bellator MMA lightweight champion has hinted that a potential fight with McGregor isn't entirely off the table, suggesting it could still happen in 2025, Ben Askren believes the Irishman’s extravagant habits are the main reason why the highly anticipated matchup hasn't materialized.
During a recent episode of his Funky and the Champ show alongside UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, Askren alleged that 'The Notorious' is struggling with substance abuse and claimed that he is unlikely ever to make a return to fighting:
"It’s pretty obvious to me that Conor McGregor is an addict. And he is rich enough that it doesn’t really have a hugely negative impact on his life. Everyone kind of lets him do what he wants to do, but this guy clearly is out partying and can’t show up for training camp. There’s videos of him partying constantly. And listen, if you’re rich and famous and you’re not murdering anyone or anything worse, where you’re going to go to jail, I guess fine, whatever. Go live your life."
Check out Ben Askren's comments below (0:28):
McGregor insisted that he will return to the octagon by the end of 2024, asserting that he’s undergone frequent drug testing and is fully prepared to fight. However, UFC CEO Dana White has suggested that the former two-division champion's comeback may not happen until 2025.
Michael Chandler remains confident Conor McGregor will face him in his UFC comeback
During a recent interview with MMAFightingonSBN, Michael Chandler expressed unwavering confidence that he will be the one to face Conor McGregor upon 'The Notorious' making his return to the UFC:
"I still stand firm in the notion that Conor McGregor is coming back, and when he does, his road goes through Nashville, Tennessee, and Michael Chandler, and we finish 'The Ultimate Fighter'. But it's not gonna be my next fight. I am Conor's next fight, but he is not my next fight. I'm willing to go bet it all."
Catch Michael Chandler's comments below (6:35):
McGregor and Chandler have been linked to a potential matchup since they were cast as opposing coaches on 'The Ultimate Fighter' season 31 last year. The bout was scheduled to headline UFC 303 this past June, but it was ultimately canceled when 'The Notorious' withdrew just weeks before the event due to an injury.
