Conor McGregor will not fight Michael Chandler in return bout

Former two-division champion Conor McGregor is expected to make his octagon return in 2025 but he will not be fighting Michael Chandler.  UFC CEO Dana White broke the news on Friday to Barstool Sports.

“Chandler said, ‘I’m done waiting.  I want to fight,'” White said.  

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Chandler and McGregor coached The Ultimate Fighter 31 that aired in the 2023 summer.  McGregor was scheduled to face Chandler in the UFC 303 main event on June 29 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, but was forced out of the bout due to a toe injury.  It was rumored that the two would clash in December but White dispelled the rumblings saying McGregor would not fight until next year.  

McGregor has been out of action since breaking his leg in a trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. McGregor last tasted victory in January 2020, defeating Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone via technical knockout in just 40 seconds.

Chandler last fought in November 2022, losing to Poirier via submission. He filmed The Ultimate Fighter 31 and expected to face McGregor that fall. 2023 turned into 2024 and now 2025.    

With Chandler done waiting and ready and willing to fight, expect an announcement soon on who he’ll face.