UFC’s ranked #6 lightweight contender Michael Chandler stunned the MMA community when he announced he would no longer wait for UFC superstar Conor McGregor and would instead take on Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, scheduled for the fall. This decision has provoked intrigue among fans and sports analysts, who have speculated the reasons for McGregor’s delay. Some attributed it to McGregor’s partying habits, while others blamed his business ventures.

Recently, a McGregor fan raised this concern again in front of renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helani, who offered far-sighted insights into the reason behind the delays in Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon. This certainly adds a new twist to the situation!

Ariel Helwani reveals UFC’s strategy behind Conor McGregor’s delay

Since Michael Chandler announced the date of his next fight and his opponent, he has become a target of trolling in the MMA community. However, after Ariel Helwani’s analysis, one might find their anger cooling down.

In a recent Q&A session, a fan asked Helwani if Conor McGregor‘s role as a co-owner of BKFC was the reason for his extended absence from the octagon. Helwani dismissed this notion, stating, “No. I think they know he has two fights left and are trying to stretch it out as long as possible. Nice to have two fights on the books as you enter massive TV negotiations in 2025.”

Helwani’s point seems valid, as it explains why UFC head Honcho and the UFC are pushing Conor McGregor’s return even after he recovers from his pinky toe injury. The reason is clear: the UFC’s broadcasting contract with ESPN ends in 2025, and after that, major players in the broadcast industry will able to compete to bid for UFC rights.

Meanwhile, McGregor has only two fights left before he is expected to retire. With his star power and ability to sell tickets and PPVs, McGregor is a valuable asset for Dana White and the UFC. So, how could White let go of this golden opportunity?

Dana White seeks big deal with UFC broadcasting rights

Back in July, the world’s jaw dropped when the NBA closed a new 11-year deal for its telecast broadcasting rights with ESPN/ABC and also extended its telecast on Amazon Prime for 11 years in a record $77 billion deal starting in 2025. This landmark agreement captured the attention of major players in the sports industry, including UFC head honcho Dana White, who is known for his cutthroat business tactics and doesn’t want to miss such a significant opportunity.

In a candid interview in July, Dana White vowed to capitalize on the situation. He stated,” Our rights deal is going to be a big deal coming up here,” White added. “Who knows? We could end up like the NBA and the NFL where we end up on multiple channels instead of just one. … It’s all moving and changing so quickly.”

What are your thoughts on Ariel Helwani’s insight? Do you also think that by milking Conor McGregor’s stardom, the UFC is waiting for the right moment to maximize their profits? Drop your opinion below.