In his first major interview since UFC 314, Michael Chandler opened up about his recent struggles—and made it crystal clear he’s not done chasing Conor McGregor. Despite a tough loss to Paddy Pimblett, Chandler remains one of the most electric lightweights on the UFC roster and has his sights set on a long-awaited showdown with “The Notorious.”
Chandler, speaking with Mike Bohn of MMA Junkie, reflected on his anniversary with his wife and noted that January 24th—coincidentally on a Saturday in 2026—could be the perfect date to finally settle things with McGregor. “Let’s speak it into existence,” he said. “They’re probably lining up a new TV deal. It all makes sense. If Conor McGregor is really coming back, it’s gotta be against me.”
The pair coached opposite seasons on The Ultimate Fighter 31, and their fight was initially expected in mid-2024. But after repeated delays and uncertainty around McGregor’s status, many have questioned if the fight will ever happen. Chandler, however, remains optimistic. “If it’s meant to be, it’ll happen,” he stated. “The Conor vs. Chandler storyline still lives on.”
Chandler also addressed his disappointing TKO loss to Paddy Pimblett. He admitted feeling off rhythm and out of sync from the opening bell in their Miami clash. “When I started settling in, I ate that flying knee, and it was all downhill after that,” he said.
Still, Chandler isn’t rushing into anything. After three losses to Pimblett, Oliveira, and Poirier, he’s planning a summer break, hoping to regroup and return later in the year—ideally, with a red panty night on the horizon.
