Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor’s return to the octagon has been repeatedly postponed. Initially scheduled for June 29th, the fight was canceled due to McGregor’s pinkie toe injury. He later suggested a December return, but this timeline seems uncertain too. The ongoing delay has significantly impacted UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler, who has been waiting over 20 months for the fight, facing criticism and ridicule for his extended wait.

Recently, UFC welterweight contender Ben Askren in an interview with Daniel Cormier, proposed a new strategy for Michael Chandler while waiting for the uncertain return of Conor McGregor. Drawing inspiration from boxing legend Mike Tyson, Askren suggested a specific approach. He proposed that Chandler should say to the UFC, “Just give me someone who sucks, like not a good guy, maybe not even a UFC guy. Go find me someone else.”

Furthermore, Askren recommended that Chandler should start knocking out opponents like Tyson used to, stating, “Just give him a bum, let him knock the bum out, and then he calls out Conor McGregor next month. Give him another bum, boom, another knockout, and he calls out Conor Mcgregor again.” Michael Chandler is currently hitting the gym and staying in shape to be available for any fight.

Meanwhile, Conor Mcgregor is currently enjoying life and perks. He was recently seen at a BKFC event, a promotion he acquired a share in May. The Dubliner sported a bald head and adopted a persona reminiscent of Dana White. Additionally, he recently hinted at a return to the octagon for a “Roadhouse 2” movie, which became a hit on Prime Video this year. Amidst these endeavors, McGregor seems to be disregarding Michael Chandler, who recently expressed frustration with the delay in their fight, admitting on social media that the fight might be off.

Has Michael Chandler accepted his fate?

Michael Chandler patiently awaited his highly anticipated fight with Conor Mcgregor, ignited by their coaching roles on TUFC 31. After months of speculation, the fight was initially scheduled for UFC 303 but was subsequently derailed. This prolonged wait, where Chandler remained steadfastly committed, earned him the moniker “Hachiko,” a loyal dog, from UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

However, recent images of Conor Mcgregor partying at a BKFC event have made the Irishman’s return to the Octagon increasingly unlikely, forcing a revaluation of the situation for Michael Chandler. He recently shared his feelings on X, writing, “Never mind guys…I think it’s time I finally admit the fight is off. He’s still in stage 2 of the 7 of grief pertaining to his career being over. Figured he’d be closer to 5 by now. Godspeed @TheNotoriousMMA.”

What are your thoughts on the Ben Askren plan for Michael Chandler to fight a weak opponent? Do you think this approach would benefit Chandler? Let us know in the comments below.