McGregor’s Fitness Level Raises Questions

Conor McGregor’s long-time coach, John Kavanagh, has expressed his confidence that McGregor is ready to return to the UFC and face Michael Chandler. McGregor, who has a record of 22-6 in MMA and 10-4 in the UFC, was set to make his comeback at UFC 303 in July but had to withdraw due to a broken toe. Initially teasing a December comeback, McGregor later claimed that the UFC wouldn’t let him fight this year, while UFC President Dana White has suggested that McGregor’s return will likely happen in early 2025.

“Conor McGregor will fight next year, early 2025,” White told the New York Post. “He’s had so much time off, as far as the hunger, he’s a very wealthy guy. We’ll find out when he comes back, but he is definitely one of the big superstars of the sport that elevated the UFC all throughout Europe and other parts of the world. He’s been a big star and a great partner for us.”

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Kavanagh Remains Optimistic Despite Conflicting Timelines

While White casts doubts on a 2024 return, Kavanagh believes McGregor is already in fighting shape.

“If the [McGregor vs. Chandler] date came back and was confirmed for December, we’re already in heavy training, although we’re training remotely together at the moment,” Kavanagh said in an interview with “Lucky Block.” “He’s stateside on, I believe, a Forged Irish Stout tour. He’s visiting a couple of breweries over there, but we’re still sending each other training videos and training plans.”

“He’s got some training partners over there and in the footage I’m getting back, he’s looking very sharp to me. If the date was now or in December, it would be a green light for me anyway,” Kavanagh added.

Chandler and McGregor: Both Waiting for the Fight to Happen

McGregor hasn’t competed since suffering a broken leg in his TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. Michael Chandler has also been sidelined since November 2022, when he lost to Poirier via submission. Chandler has put his career on hold, waiting for the potential blockbuster fight against McGregor, which could take place in 2024 if UFC and all parties reach an agreement.

As the timeline for McGregor’s return remains uncertain, fans and experts alike are eager to see whether the Irish superstar can reclaim his spot at the top of the sport.

Sources: MMAnytt.se