Why Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler at UFC 303 Is Not Going To Happen. -

Alex Pereira Vs. Jiří Procházka 2 at UFC 303 For Light Heavyweight Title

Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated bout against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 has been called off, UFC president Dana White confirmed Thursday night. McGregor, with a record of 22-6, withdrew due to injury, marking the first time he has pulled out of a fight in his UFC career. As a result, a new main event has been set: a light heavyweight title fight between Alex Pereira and Jiří Procházka, as announced by White.

In addition to the main event change, White revealed two more fights added to the card: Diego Lopes versus Brian Ortega as the co-main event, and Carlos Ulberg facing Anthony Smith in a light heavyweight bout. This adjustment follows an injury that sidelined Jamahal Hill, originally slated to fight in the co-main event.

According to White, the event was on track to set a UFC record with a live gate exceeding $20 million. However, there’s no word yet on whether McGregor versus Chandler will be rescheduled.

Chandler, taking the news in stride, acknowledged the uncertainties and risks involved in facing McGregor in a social media post the following day.

McGregor, 35, was poised to make his comeback after recovering from a broken leg suffered in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. His return fight was eagerly awaited, especially since his last few appearances have been mixed, including losses to Poirier and Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Back Story

The saga between McGregor and Chandler, a former Bellator MMA champion, has been long-awaited since Chandler first challenged McGregor in 2022. Despite coaching against each other on “The Ultimate Fighter” last year, their fight date has been delayed several times.

Earlier reports about McGregor potentially receiving special treatment regarding drug testing led to disputes with UFC’s former testing partner, the United States Anti-Doping Agency. However, UFC has since revamped its drug testing protocols with new partnerships.

McGregor had promised a triumphant return, declaring it the “Greatest Comeback in Sports History” on social media. A scheduled news conference in Dublin was canceled abruptly, sparking speculation about the fight’s status.

Chandler, 38, hasn’t fought since his close match against Poirier in November 2022. He has expressed interest in potential matchups against Nate Diaz or Max Holloway, though Diaz is currently not under contract with UFC.

With McGregor’s withdrawal, fans and MMA experts alike are left speculating on the future of this anticipated matchup and what lies ahead for both fighters in the Octagon.