Ex-UFC Double Champ Conor McGregor Undeserving of Title Shot Claims Beneil Dariush as Lightweight Star Backs Winner of BMF Strap

Conor McGregor is scheduled to return to the Octagon at the end of the year against Michael Chandler. They will fight after the 31st season of ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ comes to an end. Many people believe that the UFC may give ‘Notorious’ a title shot if he defeats ‘Iron’. However, lightweight contender Beneil Dariush is not a fan of that idea.

Beneil Dariush is gearing up for his fight at UFC 289 this weekend. He will be taking on former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira in a fight that was postponed earlier due to an injury issue. However, both fighters are ready and recently made appearances on UFC media day.

Beneil Dariush is not keen to see Conor McGregor fight for the title

‘Benny’ has been on the grind, racking up an 8-fight undefeated streak on his way to UFC 289. He has proved himself to be one of the most credible fighters to challenge for the championship. Nevertheless, Dariush needs to overcome Charles Oliveira, which will put him in the hot seat to challenge Islam Makhachev.

When he was asked about whom he’d prefer to face if he had to choose between the winner of BMF contenders Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier and the winner of McGregor vs Chandler, he favored the BMF contenders. Dariush said, “I believe it’s gonna be Justin Gaethje. He seems a little bit hungrier, but at the same time, it’s hard to say with Dustin Poirier.”

Dariush claims that the BMF contenders have been more active than Conor McGregor. “As far as who I would prefer between BMF [contenders] or Conor and Chandler, I’d definitely say the BMF. I think these guys are more active.” Dariush added, “I think if Conor wins and he beats Chandler, I know the UFC will give him a title shot.” 

He is well aware of the fact that the UFC may not hesitate to give McGregor a title shot, considering his drawing power in the game. However, he isn’t too keen on seeing the Irishman challenge for the championship. ‘Benny’ added, “But I don’t know if he’s really deserving of it.”

‘Notorious’ has one win in five years

Conor McGregor’s recent UFC record is not something he may be proud of. He remains one of the UFC’s biggest superstars despite not being as active as he used to be. Moreover, he has won only one fight in the last five years with the promotion. Since 2018, McGregor has competed in only four fights against the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Dustin Poirier, and Donald Cerrone.

McGregor was successful in beating only ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone, who was on a losing streak of his own at that point of his career. He also failed to conquer Dustin Poirier twice in 2021, which saw him injure his left leg that took him out of the game in his last UFC fight.

READ MORE: Charles Oliveira’s Injury Update: Is the Former UFC Champ Fit for His Comeback?

Being the showman that he is, it won’t come as a surprise to the fans if Conor McGregor gets a title shot should he beat Chandler. But Beneil Dariush believes that other active fighters deserve a title shot more than the Irishman. We will have to wait and see what unfolds in the future.

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