Conor McGregor Vs. Michael Chandler – How Does It Play Out?

Conor McGregor says he is fighting Michael Chandler at the UFC White House event next June, as we look at how the fight could play out. 

McGregor’s return has long been in the making. His last UFC appearance took place at UFC 264 when he suffered a knockout loss to Poirier in 2021. The defeat was exacerbated by a broken leg, which has kept him out for a prolonged period. The Notorious was scheduled to fight Chandler at UFC 303 last year.

However, he pulled out with a broken toe, meaning the fight was called off. McGregor still has two fights left on his UFC deal, as he reentered the testing pool this year. He has spoken about his desire to fight on the UFC White House card, with Dana White also saying he would want the Irishman to headline. Here is how the fight could play out. 

The Approach

For McGregor, the path to victory lies in a fast, explosive start. McGregor’s tactical advantage has always been his pinpoint-accurate left hand and his ability to counter-strike with devastating precision. He will likely try to use his footwork to manage distance and prevent Chandler from getting inside to wrestle. His strategy will be to bait Chandler into an exchange and then land a clean counter, much like he did against Jose Aldo and Eddie Alvarez. The biggest question mark for McGregor is his durability and cardio after a prolonged absence from the sport and a broken leg.

Chandler’s strategy will be to use his constant pressure, wrestling, and durability to wear McGregor down. Chandler is a high-volume fighter with an explosive style, and he will look to test McGregor’s cardio from the opening bell. He will use feints and powerful punches to close the distance and get the fight to the ground, where he can use his superior wrestling to control McGregor. He will be hoping to get the fight past the first two rounds, as McGregor’s power and speed are at their peak early.