Former UFC two-division champion Conor McGregor has set a definitive date for his highly anticipated comeback to the Octagon. In an announcement made via social media, McGregor revealed his scheduled bout against Michael Chandler in a middleweight clash during International Fight Week.
Addressing his fans on social media, McGregor stated: “Ladies and gentlemen, a Happy New Year to you all. I’d like to announce the return date for myself, the ‘Notorious’ Conor McGregor, the greatest comeback of all time will take place in Las Vegas for International Fight Week, June the 29th… and the opponent, Michael Chandler. And the weight, Mr. Chandler, 185 pounds.”
Although the official confirmation from the promotion is pending, Chandler expressed his readiness for the match.
He did offer a brief statement to ESPN by saying: “Here we go. Any weight is good with me.”
McGregor and Chandler previously served as opposing coaches on TUF 31 reality show. The much-anticipated showdown has faced delays following the reality show’s conclusion. Notably, neither McGregor nor Chandler has previously competed in the middleweight division throughout their careers.
McGregor’s last match was in July 2021, where he endured a leg injury in a defeat against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. The SBG Ireland standout has encountered victory only once in his last four appearances, dating back to 2018.
On the other hand, Chandler has faced setbacks in three of his last four bouts. His most recent loss came against Poirier via third-round submission at UFC 281 in November 2022.
Previously, McGregor had threatened that he would compete in a boxing match if he wasn’t given a match in the UFC soon. Recently at the Day of Reckoning event in Saudi Arabia, McGregor said: “Would you think that’s a man would do? vs what a mouse would do?…Money talks, Manny already owes me $8 million via court of law cause he was signed to my management company and didn’t honor his deal.”
The confirmed matchup between McGregor and Chandler has stirred excitement among fans and the MMA community. With both combatants aiming for the win, this anticipated clash promises an electrifying showdown.