“Both Deserve to Be in the UFC”- Conor McGregor, Dana White, and Michael Chandler Vouch for a “Classic Fight” at TUF 31 That Saw the Results Go In Irishman’s Favor

We have a new ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ Season 31 highlight and it’s full of blood and sweat. The TUF franchise has arguably been one of the most successful campaigns by UFC President Dana White. However, more than often – the dazzle and hype around the fights in the reality show fizzles out into almost nothing. The 31st installment of the MMA reality TV show kicked off with very high hopes after featuring UFC stars Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler – teasing a finale fight between the UFC veterans.

In the 11th episode of TUF S31, ‘Notorious’ and ‘Iron’ Mike squared off in the coldest Coaches Challenge in TUF history. Then, teammates and bayou buddies Kurt Holobaugh and Jason Knight battled it out in a lightweight semifinal matchup. This Lightweight clash between the duo has sparked a buzz among UFC head honchos as well as MMA fans. What’s more – after a snippet of the fight went viral, even Conor McGregor, Dana White, and Michael Chandler’s awe became the hot cake of UFC debates. But why were these three UFC titans left speechless? Was the clash really so tantalizing?

Teammates turned opponents deliver thrilling showdown in TUF 31 episode 11

UFC’s ‘Iron’ Mike shared a snippet from the TUF fight and his priceless reactions say it all – the clash was bang on! Episode 11 saw teammates Kurt Holobaugh and Jason Knight – who turned opponents, and they exploded into action down in a gripping 3-round lightweight semifinal battle. The second round proved to be decisive as the Irishman’s apprentice Holobaugh executed a TKO victory over Knight, with a series of well-timed jabs and then a takedown into ground-and-pound.

Post-fight, Chandler took to Instagram to share his thoughts on the fight. His caption was a testament to the intensity of the showdown, labeling it as “the best fight of the #tuf31 season thus far.” The TUF coach’s IG post caption read:

“Goodness. Gracious. Them boys slugged it out. Easily the best fight of the #tuf31 season thus far. Hats off to @kurt_thehurt_holobaugh and @jtkthekid – both deserve to be in the @UFC and I believe they both will be. Walk On. See you at the top!”

Read More: Conor McGregor Breaks Silence After Dana White Lashed Out at TUF 31’s Production Team’s “Dangerous” Challenge for Irishman and Michael Chandler

The Irishman’s reaction to the episode was one of appreciation and admiration. He praised the battle between Holobaugh and Knight, labeling it a “classic fight.” But the highlight of the clip was UFC President Dana White – who just couldn’t contain his excitement. He declared the fight as “incredible” and unequivocally dubbed it the “fight of the season.”

What do you think? Now that Dana White has confirmed that McGregor’s next opponent is surely his TUF counterpart – will we see a similar showdown if the UFC makes the fight? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Watch this story: Conor McGregor Gives a Fired-Up Speech During TUF 31