Michael Chandler anticipates Conor McGregor bout to occur in the next half-year: Morning Report

Michael Chandler is eagerly awaiting a potential matchup with Conor McGregor. Since joining the UFC in 2021, Chandler has been interested in fighting McGregor, who made a spectacular debut against Dan Hooker at UFC 257. Chandler's UFC journey has been action-packed, bringing him closer to his goal of fighting McGregor, although nothing is confirmed yet. Both former lightweight champions are currently coaching opposite each other on Season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF). The coaches traditionally fight at the end of the season, but McGregor's leg injury in his last fight against Dustin Poirier in July 2021 has put him on the sidelines. McGregor will have to undergo six months of testing before he can compete in the octagon again. With McGregor's return window closing in 2023, there are doubts as to whether the fight will happen at all. Chandler firmly believes McGregor will return, as he doesn't want to tarnish his legacy by backing out. Chandler is prepared to wait and believes the fight will take place within the next six months. He expects it to be one of the biggest pay-per-view events and plans to knock McGregor out within the first two rounds. However, Chandler's desire to face McGregor means he is facing the longest layoff of his 14-year career. Talks about the fight are ongoing, and while people are eager for answers, patience is necessary given the magnitude of the event and the current lull in Chandler's schedule due to The Ultimate Fighter.