Conor McGregor continues to express his desire to fight Michael Chandler as he prepares for his first UFC appearance since 2021. The two fighters’ matchup has been highly anticipated, especially after they were originally set to headline UFC 303 before McGregor withdrew due to injury. This fight was expected to headline the UFC event at the White House scheduled for June, but UFC president Dana White recently dismissed the pairing, claiming it feels outdated.
White’s comments appeared to put a halt on a fight that many fans and insiders considered a natural next step. Despite this, McGregor has not backed down, signaling his intent to return and compete regardless of the opponent in front of him.
What Lies Ahead for the Potential McGregor vs. Chandler Bout?
Although the fight seems to have lost momentum, speculation continues that McGregor and Chandler may finally meet around 2026. Michael Chandler has expressed confidence in securing this clash, especially given the history between the two fighters. Their rivalry intensified after they coached on “The Ultimate Fighter,” raising hopes among fans that the showdown could materialize soon.
With Dana White hinting at moving forward with other opponents for McGregor’s return, uncertainty surrounding the Chandler fight has grown. Still, McGregor’s recent response shows he is unfazed by these developments and willing to accept whoever the UFC arranges.

McGregor’s Defiant Reaction to Dana White’s Comments
In response to White’s dismissal of the Chandler matchup, McGregor took to social media to assert his readiness to fight any adversary. He wrote on X, “Pick who ya want!” emphasizing his confidence and disregard for the president’s skepticism. Accompanying his post was a bold message:
“The Mac sweats nothin and nobody. I’m TASTY SHOTS.”
?Conor McGregor, UFC Fighter
This statement highlights McGregor’s mindset of fearlessness and determination, traits that have defined his career and made him a staple in the UFC.
Why Dana White Still Sees McGregor as a Key Figure for Major Events
Since announcing the UFC’s planned event at the White House, Dana White has been frequently questioned about potential fight cards. While the fight with Chandler might be off the table for now, White praises McGregor’s reliability for high-profile appearances. In the past, McGregor has delivered excitement and viewership, making him a trusted figure to headline big occasions.
Despite his withdrawal from UFC 303 due to a toe injury, McGregor’s ability to engage fans and provide memorable fights remains unmatched. This enduring value explains why the UFC president is eager to have McGregor participate, regardless of opponent, at landmark events like the White House card.
Significance of McGregor’s Willingness to Fight Any Opponent
McGregor’s openness to face whatever challenger the UFC assigns reflects both his competitive spirit and understanding of his role in the sport. This approach alleviates some tension surrounding the lineup decisions and reinforces his status as a central figure in the promotion. While the Chandler fight may be postponed indefinitely, McGregor’s return still promises significant anticipation and star power.
The ongoing dialogue around potential matchups also influences UFC scheduling and fan expectations, making McGregor’s decisions critical for the organization’s direction in upcoming events.
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