The anticipated Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler bout seems to have been grounded for this year and with that McGregor’s return has been delayed as well. This year has already been stacked with quality fights and it seems we have to wait till 2024 to witness McGregor fight again in the Octagon. However, it seems that with McGregor, Michael Chandler is also having a long break.

With no trace of further information about the anticipated match, the community is perplexed about the happening and non happening about the event. However, Dana White, in a recent interview has given some clear indications about the event. Under the current circumstances, when can the match take place?

Dana White clears uncertainty surrounding McGregor vs. Chandler matchup

Dana White, while having a press conference, was asked by one reporter about the potential match-up between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler. The reporter added to his question “I think everybody finally realized Conor McGregor is definitely not fighting this year because the end of the year is done I guess. What can you tell us the latest on Conor and maybe the latest on Chandler as well? Are you staying in touch with him? Is he ready to move on? What’s kind of the play with both?”

White was quick to respond to his question and added that he had no idea about this and he had not been in contact with either of those guys on this matter. He said “ I’ve got nothing on either one of those guys right now. I mean, I’ve been saying, you know, for a while. Next year is when Conor’s gonna fight. And then, obviously, you know, if Chandler gets antsy, we’ll figure something out. I think Chandler’s got a bunch of money; he’s hanging out with his family. And when the time is right for the Conor fight, I’m sure that’s the fight he wants. I’m not speaking for him; I’m just saying, I’m assuming.”

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White hinted that fans can anticipate seeing Conor McGregor back in the Octagon next year, though no specific details have been confirmed yet. As for Michael Chandler, White suggested that Chandler might currently be relishing some quality family time and that if he starts feeling restless, they will work together to find an appropriate matchup.

Conor McGregor’s UFC return uncertain amid USADA testing hurdles

Conor McGregor was set to face Michael Chandler following the finale of “The Ultimate Fighter” (TUF). The coaches of both teams have to face each other traditionally. However, USADA mandates stopped McGregor from entering the Octagon. As per USADA, McGregor must re-enter the testing pool and pass at least two clean drug tests over six months before being eligible to compete, and this has been a major hurdle for the former dual weight champion to compete.

Dana White had previously mentioned that McGregor’s comeback will not be happening this year. However, fans anticipated that White must have been doing something in the back to let this fight materialize, but the Colby Covington vs. Leon Edwards card on UFC 296 shattered the expectations. When do you think Conor McGregor will be able to return to the world of UFC? Do tell us in the comments below.

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