There has been a lot of anticipation surrounding McGregor’s return to the Octagon. None more so than Michael Chandler, the chosen opponent for McGregor’s return bout. After the disappointing news of McGregor’s failure to register with USADA in time, Chandler’s guaranteed big-money fight seems more like a pipe dream. Subsequently, he was quick to take a not-so-subtle dig at the former champion.

The Ultimate Fighter season 31 is close to a nightmare for Conor McGregor. Brad Katona from Michael Chandler’s team secured a win by unanimous decision over Team McGregor’s Carlos Vera in the 5th episode. What makes this a particularly bitter pill to swallow for ‘Mystic Mac’ is that Katona is actually a long-time training partner at SBG Ireland, the gym where McGregor trains.  

Michael Chandler rubs salt in the wounds of the Irishman, Conor McGregor

After the announcement of a probable fight between McGregor and Chandler, the entire combat sports world was left in awe and anticipation for the return of the ‘Mystic Mac’. However, fate seemed to have different plans for the fighter. After five episodes, Team McGregor is yet to have a breakthrough, while Chandler’s team secured the win in the fifth episode of TUF 31.

The bout between Katona and Vera was, in fact, a competitive one. Although Vera gave a tough fight to Katona, he wasn’t able to overcome Katona’s control, and the bout ended in Katona’s favor. As Katona was unanimously declared the victor, McGregor’s disappointment splashed through the screens. He was visibly frustrated at his team’s loss.

Read More: TUF 31 Ep.4 Recap: Conor McGregor’s Team Goes Down 4–0 to Michael Chandler, Coaches Clash Over Weight Class Negotiations; ‘The Notorious’ Invites Stephen Thompson to Train

Undeniably, Chandler wasn’t one to keep quiet. He went on Twitter and seemed to pick at McGregor’s frustration. The ‘Iron’ pointed at the Irishman’s return and taunted him. He tweeted, “#teamchandler is 5-0….that’s all. Come back if you want. We are all waiting for “the greatest comeback in combat sports history.”” Reminding where the quoted text came from, Chandler was smart to push McGregor to put his foot in his mouth.

The history behind the “greatest comeback” line

The ‘greatest comeback’ taunt by Chandler was in reference to an interview done by ‘The Notorious’ a while ago. In an interview with Megan Olivi, the former UFC two-division champion discussed his coaching strategies. But the fighter did not back down from teasing his comeback.

McGregor declared that his comeback would be “the greatest comeback in combat sports history.” Doubtlessly, the fighter seems confident about his return despite the talks about his problem with USADA on the rise.

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