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Conor McGregor and his return to the Octagon has been a hot topic in the MMA community. After a gruesome leg injury during his fight with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021, McGregor was expected to face Michael Chandler following their coaching stint on TUF 31. However, his absence from the USADA testing pool derailed those plans, as fighters are mandated to undergo active testing for at least 6 months before being cleared for a fight.

Nevertheless, there is hope on the horizon for McGregor fans and potential opponents. Recently, McGregor made an announcement on social media, revealing that he has initiated the USADA testing process. This development has stirred the interest of Michael Chandler, who took to Twitter/X to humorously taunt McGregor!

Conor McGregor and his UFC return questioned by Michael Chandler

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Chandler and McGregor had both served as coaches during the summer on TUF 31 and were tentatively booked to battle in December. Unfortunately, with the UFC 296 card already locked in, a year-end showdown seems unlikely. However, McGregor’s actions have revived the prospect of their clash, as he disclosed on his Twitter/X account that he has submitted the necessary materials to Jeff Novitzky, the UFC’s Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance.

UFC fighters must undergo six months of randomized testing and return two negative results before they can compete again. This suggests a strong possibility of the McGregor vs. Chandler showdown occurring next year, potentially at UFC 300.

In response, Michael Chandler playfully shared a meme depicting McGregor seemingly holding a USADA sample testing cup while the lyrics of Creed’s song, ‘My Sacrifice,‘ sung by Scott Stapp, played in the background. Chandler captioned the post, “Are we getting close @TheNotoriousMMA”

During an interview with Mirror Fighting in London, Conor McGregor was resolute that his comeback must be against Chandler. He unequivocally stated, “Chandler, sit down and wait and shut your mouth, yeah? The Mac will be here soon.”

Chandler believes UFC 300 will be the perfect stage for their fight

Michael Chandler, on the other hand, expressed his belief that the most significant fight in a long time should take place on the grandest UFC card. In his appearance on The MMA Hour, he suggested that they might have to wait until UFC 300. Chandler acknowledged that Conor McGregor, with his substantial wealth, might not be in a rush to return. And emphasized the importance of him feeling completely ready.

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Chandler has faced criticism from those who question his decision to wait for the McGregor fight. He stated, “My heart of hearts, my gut says we might be waiting until UFC 300. Good thing I’ve got a lot of things to keep me busy, and I get an opportunity to train for Conor for a very long time.”

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Chandler also stated in the same interview that he has taken meticulous care of his body and mind. And despite the wear and tear on his body, he remains confident in his abilities. He stated he is not worried about his age, and that “I feel phenomenal, and I have a lot of tread left on these tires.

Read More: UFC’s 155 lbs Division in the Dumps Due to Michael Chandler’s Unwillingness to “Get Over” Conor McGregor Fight Delay, Claims Lightweight

In conclusion, Conor McGregor’s anticipated return to the Octagon against Michael Chandler has taken a step closer to reality. With McGregor’s initiation of the USADA testing process. While the exact timing remains uncertain, fans can hope for a showdown that could potentially headline UFC 300. Setting the stage for a blockbuster fight. Chandler remains committed to staying in peak condition, ready to face McGregor when the time is right, with age proving to be no obstacle for him.

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Do you think the fight will occur at UFC 300? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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