Having Fought Both Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, Former Champ Eddie Alvarez Reveals Glaring Difference Between the Two: “There’s a Real Disadvantage…”

Conor McGregor‘s much-awaited return has been a hot topic for discussion amongst fans and analysts alike over the last few months. Having squared off against Michael Chandler in ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ house, all that remains is an official confirmation of the date and location for the fight between the two.

Addressing this fight, Eddie Alvarez, who was a former UFC champ himself, recently revealed his pick and broke down how the fight could go down. His forecast definitely serves as a unique perspective since the former champ has had the privilege to face both these athletes inside the cage. Having beaten Chandler during his days in Bellator, and having fought the Irishman back in 2016, Alvarez made a quick analysis of their skill sets and finally also gave his pick for the bout.

Eddie Alvarez addresses Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler fight

The 39-year-old who is slated to face former UFC fighter, Chad Mendes later this month in a BKFC event, discussed the McGregor and Chandler fight in a recent interview with MMA reporter Helen Yee. Pointing out that Chandler should utilize his wrestling more often, he claimed that ‘Iron’ could have won more fights if he did so earlier.

“He could have done it to a lot of his opponents, and he opted to stand in the ring and bang and do what he’s doing. He’s winning fans over, but he’s not winning as many fights as he can be,” said Alvarez. 

Having suffered a loss to McGregor in 2016, the former lightweight champ then went on to reveal the huge difference in the level of striking between the two fighters.

“…like there’s a real disadvantage to Mike by trying to go into a striking match with Conor McGregor,” he said. “I think there’s a huge speed advantage on Conor’s part. Experience advantage on the boxing, and the angles, and the timing”

This statement from Alvarez does come from his experience of having faced both of them and is also a common sentiment shared by many other fighters and even fans.

Eddie Alvarez gives his prediction

Continuing on the aspect of how good McGregor is on his feet, the 39-year-old stated that Chandler’s striking, on the other hand, was rather “simple”. He then went on to emphasize that ‘Iron’ might just not have the right game plan to beat the Irishman and his elite striking.

“I think Mike isn’t going to implement the right game plan. I think he’s going to lose the striking battle with Conor,” he explained. 

Read More: Former UFC Champion Reveals His “Desire” to Fight Free Agent Nate Diaz: “I Just Think He’s the Right Fighter”

Coming from Alvarez and his massive experience as a fighter, many fans would probably choose to agree with his statement. While Chandler is no doubt entertaining and an elite fighter himself; a lack of a solid blueprint heading into the fight might turn out to be a big mistake on his end.

Watch This Story: Conor McGregor Responds To Khabib Nurmagomedov’s GOAT List