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Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports

Michael Chandler Fires Back At Islam Makhachev’s Criticism

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated 3/17/24

Michael Chandler has hit back at Islam Makhachev’s criticism.

Chandler has not fought in the UFC since the end of 2022. He lost to Dustin Poirier at UFC 281. That was his third defeat in his last four UFC fights. Since then, Chandler has been chasing a fight with Conor McGregor. Their rivalry began on the TUF 31 series. Chandler’s team won the series, winning more bouts than team McGregor.

But when it came to the coach’s challenge, McGregor got the upper hand. There have been numerous attempts to make the fight, but so far, nothing has happened. McGregor announced on New Year’s Day that he would fight Chandler on June 29. Dana White ruled out that date, leaving MMA fans none the wiser. Now, Makhachev has criticised Chandler’s inactivity.

Makhachev vs Chandler

“You know, honestly, I hope this happens, but in this situation, Chandler looks very bad. Because how many years has he been waiting for this fight? Every night he goes to bed and has a dream, ‘I will fight with Conor McGregor.’ Man, you’re not young.

“You have a chance to fight someone, make money. And after, you can fight with Conor. He had already lost his last fight. Lose one more time and make money. Maybe if you lose again, Conor will see this fight and think, ‘Oh, OK, I can beat this guy.’ It’s a good fight for the fans, but for the division it means nothing,” Makhachev said

Now, Chandler has suggested that he wants to take on the UFC Lightweight Champion.

“Thanks for the unsolicited advice Islam Makhachev. I sleep just fine at night. I have a plan and you’re part of it, champ,” Chandler replied

McGregor’s Return

McGregor is equally desperate to make a return to the ring. The Notorious is currently promoting his latest film ‘Road House.’ He stars alongside Jake Gyllenhaal. The film is set to come out on March 21 via Amazon Prime. However, since McGregor is 35, he cannot afford to remain inactive for too long.

He has not fought since losing to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in 2021. That was his third loss in his last four UFC bouts. Reports indicate that he has two fights left on his UFC deal. That places McGregor in a tough spot if he is not getting a fight date. But if he manages to work his way out of his contract, he could explore some options in boxing. But so far, McGregor has been left frustrated.

“I’m wrapping up this tour, I’ve got the St. Paddy’s Day festivities coming up, and then I’m gonna get back and regroup. I’m gonna test myself physical wiswe on the treadmill and go about the McGregor Fast way and get myself right back.

“I had a camp in Cannes, the South of France, I had a camp in Dubai where I had world champions training with me where I was hoping for a December date, then a January date. Then it keeps getting pushed back, then I lose interest and stop full training for a while. Not stop training, I will always train, but stop full training and drinking a little back. I’m going to go back and regroup,” Conor McGregor said