Sometimes fame overshadows the fighter, and it appears Conor McGregor is emerging as a typical example of it. The Irishman captivated the fans with his charismatic personality and backed it up with his electric performances in the Octagon. He soon touched soaring heights of glory and established himself as a global superstar. But it seems those visuals are of a distant past as ‘The Notorious’ struggles not only with form but also with USADA. Is Conor McGregor the fighter being pushed into the background by his money-minting persona?

His upcoming opponent, Michael Chandler, doesn’t believe so. ‘Iron’ has unwavering faith in the Irish fighter that he will step up and meet him in a must-win fight. The American fighter has produced mixed results and is 2-3 since making his promotional debut in 2021. On the other hand, ‘Mystic Mac’ is at 1-3 in his recent outing, a stat that doesn’t justify his caliber. Thus, it is a perfect match for the two to rejuvenate their careers. However, doubts have been cast as the former UFC champ’s enthusiasm for fighting seems to be fading away.

Michael Chandler reaffirms his faith in Conor McGregor

The 37-year-old in interaction with MMA Fighting reiterated the need to continue to stamp his name as one of the best lightweights. He also emphasized how McGregor spotted a “big dance partner” in him for the biggest fight on the biggest stage. But the former Bellator champion is out on a hunt for the win and cement his claim as the guy who should be in the UFC Hall of Fame.

However, he knows a fight against him might not be as important for McGregor. The former champ-champ is racking in millions due to his business ventures, such as Proper 12 whiskey and his heavy paycheck against Floyd Mayweather. Notably, the UFC cash cow collected reportedly $130 million from his boxing debut against ‘Money’.

Chandler said, “Ever since he fought Floyd [Mayweather], made eight figures, sells his whiskey company for nine figures or whatever it is, the guy doesn’t need to fight.”

Therefore, effectively eliminating the charm of fighting for him. But that’s not who McGregor is.

Chandler continued, “He [Conor McGregor] fights because he’s a natural-born competitor, and he loves this. He loves the high-stakes, high-demanding pressure scenarios that he throws himself into, and every single one of those fights are big.”

Despite his deposit of faith in McGregor, the 22-6 record holder has done little to return it. He failed to register himself in time for the USADA’s six-month testing stipulation. As a result, there are meager chances of his comeback this year. However, Chandler and fans are still hopeful.

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What do you think of these comments by Michael Chandler? Do you agree with him that McGregor is a born competitor? Let us know in the comments below.

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