McGregor Reacts to Chandler Loss
It seems even when Conor McGregor doesn’t step inside the UFC Octagon, his commentary on all things MMA keeps him front and center. After Michael Chandler’s defeat at UFC 309 against Charles ‘do Bronx’ Oliveira, McGregor didn’t miss the opportunity to share his insight. Of course, the Irishman’s reactiondelivered via X (formerly Twitter)came with his signature bravado, but there was also a touch of respect mixed in with McGregor’s typical larger-than-life persona.
The Oliveira Factor
Chandler’s loss came at the hands of a former champion and submission specialist, Charles Oliveira, who has earned a reputation as one of the most dangerous men in the lightweight division. McGregor, an eagle-eyed observer of the sport despite his recent inactivity, had plenty to say about the Brazilian’s performance.
“Oliveira is a savage, no surprise there,” McGregor started, referencing the former lightweight champ. “You’ve gotta be on another level to beat someone like himit’s not just skill; it’s heart.”
While largely complimentary of Oliveira’s dominance in the fight, **The Notorious** couldn’t help but steer the conversation back to himselfan expected move from the self-proclaimed face of UFC.
Comments on Chandler
When it came to Chandler, McGregor’s reaction was more nuanced. The two were originally scheduled to fight after their stint as opposing coaches on “The Ultimate Fighter,” but the bout never materialized, with McGregor’s series of legal entanglements and USADA drama stalling his long-awaited return.
“Chandler’s tough, no doubt, but he doesn’t have the tools to handle the top 5 killers in this division,” McGregor posted, taking a subtle dig at Chandler’s standing in the highly competitive lightweight division.
“I’d have put him away quicker than Oliveira,” he continued, before adding more fuel to the fire by suggesting that Chandler’s head-first, brawling style would play right into McGregor‘s varied and cagey counter-striking game.
Will they ever fight?
Despite McGregor’s critique of Iron Mike Chandler, fans can’t help but wonder whether they’ll ever trade blows inside the Octagon. Almost a year later, their faceoff still remains uncertain.
Chandler has been vocal about his desire to finally face McGregor, but the Notorious One seems to have bigger aspirations, often hinting at a quest for a trilogy fight with old foe Dustin Poirier or even teasing a dream fight with boxing champion Canelo Alvarez.
“I’ll fight Chandler when I’m good and ready.” McGregor stated cryptically. “Don’t think I’ve forgotten, but I’m also looking at bigger fish. He’s not going anywhere. He’ll be there when I want him.”
What’s next for Oliveira?
On the flip side, Charles Oliveira’s stock continues to rise with this recent win over Chandler. As McGregor rightly noted, Oliveira remains one of the best fighters not just in the lightweight division, but across MMA.
While McGregor threw props at Oliveira for his “surgical precision” and elite finishing skills, the Irishman also made it clear that he would be ready to challenge Oliveira, should circumstances allow.
“I’d fancy my chances against him too.” McGregor proclaimed boldly, leaving fans to wonder if this was a subtle callout for a future showdown.
Conclusion
The MMA world knows one thing for sure: Conor McGregor’s voice will always be present whether he’s fighting or not. His latest reactions to Chandler’s loss serve as a reminder that McGregor hasn’t stepped away from the spotlight entirelyit’s only a matter of time until the Notorious one makes his return, and once again, the world will be watching.
