Conor McGregor, the former two-division UFC champion, has reignited speculation about his next fight by urging UFC president Dana White to send him a contract, explicitly naming Michael Chandler as the opponent he wants to face. This development took place amid social media exchanges in February 2026, as McGregor hinted that he is prepared to return to the Octagon, targeting a high-profile event possibly linked to the White House.
Since McGregor’s withdrawal following his leg injury at UFC 264 against Dustin Poirier, fans have eagerly awaited news of his return. The question of who will be his next adversary looms large, with Chandler emerging prominently after a period of uncertainty fueled by conflicting statements from UFC management. McGregor himself dismissed previous suggestions of facing an unnamed opponent, reinforcing his preference for Chandler and continuing to push for the fight.
UFC CEO Dana White’s Rejection of Chandler and Its Aftermath
Dana White’s initial dismissal of Michael Chandler as a contender to meet McGregor stirred disappointment among fans and Chandler himself. The two were set to coach opposite teams during The Ultimate Fighter Season 31, which raised hopes for their fight, but McGregor’s delayed return cast doubt on the matchup’s viability. The UFC CEO suggested the prospect of McGregor versus Chandler belonged to the past, signaling possible shifts in matchmaking strategy.
Despite this, McGregor has kept the idea alive through direct social media posts, responding definitively to supporters who demand the clash. One fan wrote, “Conor vs. Chandler or nothing,” to which McGregor replied simply, “It should be that.” These exchanges have kept the dialogue ongoing, though the final decision rests with the UFC’s matchmakers and promotion.
“Conor McGregor still believes his return fight should be against Michael Chandler ‘It should be [Chandler] yes.’” – Championship Rounds
McGregor’s Focused Training Signals Serious Comeback Intentions
As the conversation about a McGregor-Chandler contest heats up, McGregor has provided fans with a glimpse of his physical preparation. Having not fought since UFC 264, he has now re-entered the US anti-doping pool and shared videos highlighting an intense training regimen. These posts show McGregor working on striking and notably improving his wrestling techniques alongside his SBG Ireland teammates, which is a crucial element given Chandler’s wrestling prowess.
McGregor’s updated training footage, posted from his yacht and training facility, underscores his commitment to a competitive return while firing up fans hopeful for a blockbuster fight. His grappling drills and intense sparring sessions indicate that he aims to be ready for any challenge, reinforcing the idea that the anticipated Michael Chandler UFC fight could finally be scheduled.
“There’s nobody smoother than the Mac,” Conor McGregor wrote on social media while training with his SBG Ireland teammates.
Implications of a Potential McGregor vs. Chandler Showdown
A McGregor return bout against Michael Chandler would be a marquee event for the UFC, rekindling a rivalry teased during The Ultimate Fighter and capitalizing on both fighters’ fan followings. For McGregor, it would mark a crucial step in reestablishing his position among the division’s elite, particularly after his injury-induced hiatus. For Chandler, a fight with McGregor would provide a significant opportunity to settle unfinished business and raise his profile further.
The ongoing tension between McGregor’s public challenges to Dana White and the UFC’s hesitation reflects broader uncertainties in matchmaking for high-stakes bouts. Should the promotion accommodate McGregor’s demand, it could trigger a surge in fan engagement and UFC pay-per-view numbers. Conversely, a rejection might prolong ambiguity around McGregor’s comeback plans and frustrate supporters eager for clarity.
As the UFC approaches upcoming events like UFC 303 and eyes exclusive appearances, fans and insiders alike will monitor closely for announcements regarding this potential fight. McGregor’s recent statements and training intensity suggest that negotiations are far from over, making this one of the most anticipated matchups in the sport’s near future.
Conor McGregor still believes his return fight should be against Michael Chandler
“It should be [Chandler] yes.” pic.twitter.com/hi3PcRinbi
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) February 23, 2026
