Conor McGregor Announces UFC Return Against Michael Chandler at Middleweight for International Fight Week 2024
McGregor Claims ‘Greatest Comeback of All Time’ Set for June 29 in Las Vegas
Conor McGregor has officially announced his return to the UFC octagon. In a New Year’s Eve social media video, the Irish superstar stated he will face Michael Chandler at middleweight on June 29, 2024 for International Fight Week in Las Vegas.
“Ladies and gentlemen, Happy New Year to you all,” McGregor began. “I’d like to announce the return date for myself, ‘The Notorious’ Conor McGregor. The greatest comeback of all time will take place in Las Vegas for International Fight Week on June 29, and the opponent, Michael Chandler.”
McGregor ended the announcement video with a surprise weight declaration. “And the weight Mr. Chandler, 185 pounds,” he said followed by comical laughter.
McGregor Targets Chandler After Long Layoff
This matchup against Chandler comes after a nearly 3-year layoff for McGregor. He has not fought since breaking his leg in a July 2021 trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier. If the announced June 29 date holds, McGregor’s return comes just days short of a full 3 years outside the octagon.
Chandler has emerged as McGregor’s rumored return foe after the two coached opposing teams on The Ultimate Fighter earlier this year. The former Bellator champion laughed off McGregor’s callout video, stating “Here we go. Any weight is good with me.“
Frustrated McGregor Demands UFC Book His Return
Leading up to the New Year’s Eve announcement, McGregor expressed frustration at the UFC brass over finalizing his comeback fight. He claimed his “patience is wearing thin” as fans eagerly await his return.
The Irish superstar recently re-entered the USADA drug testing pool after its transition to Drug Free Sport International. This cleared the way for his return, which McGregor emphatically confirmed will take place at 185 pounds against Chandler.
UFC Yet to Confirm McGregor vs. Chandler
At the time of writing, UFC officials have not responded to requests for confirmation of the announced McGregor vs. Chandler middleweight matchup. Although International Fight Week generally takes place in July, the promotion has not formally announced a date for the 2024 edition.
If officially booked, this surprise 185-pound clash could produce fireworks. McGregor aims to author the greatest comeback in MMA history after three years on the sidelines. Meanwhile, Chandler looks to play spoiler and hand the UFC icon his third straight defeat.
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