According to UFC CEO Dana White, it may take at least half a year before fight enthusiasts witness the much-anticipated clash between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler.
During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show” in Las Vegas, ahead of Super Bowl LVIII, White disclosed that there is no definite end in sight for this long-awaited showdown, which has been on the radar for over a year.
White also debunked rumors about the fight date that arose after McGregor’s announcement that it would occur on June 29 in Las Vegas.
White stated, “At some point, hopefully this year. There is no date. I’m aiming for the autumn to get it done.”
Since 2023, McGregor and Chandler have been linked together, with McGregor openly hinting at a comeback after suffering a leg injury in 2021. The two fighters also served as coaches on “The Ultimate Fighter 31,” and it was expected that the matchup would be announced by the end of the season’s airing.
However, there have been several delays. McGregor entered the USADA testing pool in late 2023, and shortly after, the anti-doping organization announced its separation from the UFC, with McGregor being referenced in the announcement.
White, along with UFC chief operating officer Hunter Campbell and senior vice president of athlete health and performance Jeff Novitzky, have consistently stated that McGregor must undergo six months of testing before his return. This six-month period would conclude in April.
Chandler, who is eagerly awaiting the lucrative bout with McGregor, has not competed since November 2022.