'Conor is not coming back': Michael Chandler makes a bold call about UFC's Conor McGregor

Conor McGregor's comeback bout has yet to be announced, raising the possibility that Michael Chandler will not face the Irishman when he returns. The coaches for season 31 of 'The Ultimate Fighter' were supposed to face off in the octagon after the season finale, which aired on August 15.

3 things you need to know

• Conor McGregor's UFC return is being sought by the MMA world
• McGregor was initially expected to fight Michael Chandler in December 2023
• McGregor reportedly entered the USADA pool in October

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Michael Chandler displays confidence

Their fight has yet to be announced, and McGregor's tweet last month about the UFC surprising him with a "surprise opponent" fueled speculation about the Irishman's comeback. During a recent appearance on The MMA Hour, Chandler, however, downplayed the idea that 'The Notorious' will face anybody else in his comeback bout.

"Conor is not coming back and fighting anybody else. No matter who he talks about, no matter what things he tries to will into existence, he's coming back and he's fighting me. We did The Ultimate Fighter, we signed on the contract, we made a commitment. I'm a man of my word, I believe he's a man of his word and the UFC are men of their words." 

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The main reason for the lack of confirmation regarding a fight with Michael Chandler appears to be Conor McGregor's delayed re-entry into the USADA testing pool.

However, the Irishman re-entered the testing pool in early October, and his return bout is expected to be announced in the first quarter of 2024.