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Anticipation is building for a high-stakes clash between former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, with Chandler boldly staking his claim as the A-side in their impending matchup.
McGregor sent shockwaves through the MMA community on Friday with a social media announcement confirming the long-awaited showdown, slated for UFC 303 on June 29th. However, while McGregor's proclamation grabbed headlines, the UFC has yet to officially confirm the booking.
The impending bout marks the culmination of months of speculation and anticipation, fueled by the pair's stint as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31 in 2023. Despite the heightened excitement, fans have endured a prolonged wait for the highly anticipated showdown.
Addressing previous banter about the fight potentially taking place at 185 pounds, Chandler asserted his authority on the matter, tweeting,
"On the date he said’ but at the weight I said…he will do as he’s told.”
Chandler enters the bout following a hiatus since his defeat to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281 in 2022. Notably, he secured a stunning victory over former UFC interim lightweight champion Tony Ferguson before the setback against Poirier.
Similarly, McGregor aims to rebound from his own loss to Poirier, marred by a leg injury suffered during their encounter at UFC 264 in 2021.
If the McGregor vs. Chandler bout materializes as expected on June 29th, it will take center stage as the headline event of UFC's International Fight Week in Las Vegas. Additionally, McGregor has hinted at a desire to compete again in September following the anticipated showdown with Chandler.