Conor McGregor recently made a declaration that his previous challenges with the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) are behind him, affirming his readiness for the anticipated bout against Michael Chandler.
As a revered champion in two weight divisions within the UFC, McGregor has been absent from competition for a period nearing two years. During this hiatus, he temporarily stepped away from the USADA testing pool, a mandatory requirement for all active UFC fighters.
Conor says his USADA issue is done and the fight with Michael Chandler will be announced during #TUF31 đ pic.twitter.com/xMjzSKCzQn
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) May 19, 2023
To make his comeback official, Conor must fulfill specific criteria, including submitting two negative tests and remaining available for random spot checks for a duration of six months. Additionally, he must consistently update his whereabouts on a fighter app.
McGregor’s commitment to meeting these obligations reflects his determination to return to the Octagon and resume his fighting career.
In a recent interview with Mirror Fighting, Conor revealed that he is set to unveil the date for his highly anticipated comeback fight. The announcement will take place during the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter.
Where McGregor served as a coach opposite Michael Chandler. This forthcoming bout marks a significant milestone for the Irishman as it will be his first fight since July 2021. In that outing, he endured a harrowing leg injury during his trilogy clash with Dustin Poirier.
Fans are waiting eagerly for the return of Conor McGregor
McGregor’s imminent return has generated considerable excitement among fans eagerly awaiting to see him inside the Octagon.
“That’s done, my man,” McGregor said when asked if June 1 is the date for his return to the testing pool. As had been speculated by former fighter and renowned analyst Chael Sonnen. “That’s done. Year-end, I’m back in that cage having competed. I’m gearing up ready to go.”
“Michael Chandler, yeah. It will be announced during The Ultimate Fighter. So The Ultimate Fighter is airing now in a couple of days on ESPN, and by the time that show finishes we’ll have a date and everything set for the fans,” he added.
The odds for the upcoming fight between Conor and Michael are currently evenly matched according to bookmakers. McGregor is expected to push Chandler to move up in weight class, potentially even to welterweight or middleweight.
Despite both fighters having a well-known history in the lightweight division (155lb). The duo has already finished filming the entire season of the reality show, marking McGregor’s second appearance following his 2015 series against Urijah Faber.
The Ultimate Fighter: Conor vs Michael
Fans can look forward to catching the show when it premieres on ESPN at the end of this month.
Despite his busy schedule, McGregor made a swift return from a family trip to the United States to contribute to the final promotion of Katie Taylor’s highly anticipated super-lightweight title fight against Chantelle Cameron at the 3Arena on Saturday night.
McGregor’s businesses, including Proper Twelve whiskey, Forged Irish Stout, and his recovery spray TIDL, will likely serve as major sponsors for the event. His potential involvement further demonstrates his commitment to supporting fellow fighters and showcasing Irish talent on the grand stage.
Will you be tuning in if Conor and Chandler actually do fight sometime this year?
