Conor McGregor said he had ‘no issues’ with Michael Chandler but insists it will ‘cut’ the American later this year.
McGregor and Chandler are currently filming the new season of the show. Ultimate FighterA reality television show where they coach rival teams of contestants. The couple will then fight each other on an as yet unknown date..
talk to Mac Life On the set of the show on Thursday, February 23, McGregor said: “I love Michael, I was a little excited with him yesterday. I have no issues with it. I think he’s a good fighter.
“And when I’m coaching against him, I’m intrigued to see his coaching style. He’s more of an athlete type of guy than a technical martial artist. I know he has some skills in the wrestling department and some skills in general, but it’s like little, nuanced details… I just don’t think so. I’m not sure… I’m interested in seeing it. I’m happy where I am. It will be interesting to go against him (coaching) before I go against him (in the ring).
“I think I’m going to smash through him. I think I’m a little too clumsy for him than anyone else he’s fought for – a little too quick and whip. I think I’m going to smash through him.”
34-year-old Irish, former doubleweight UFC He has been predominantly lightweight champion since 2016, while 36-year-old Chandler is a former three-time Bellator lightweight champion.
But McGregor has grown significantly since he broke his leg in his last fight, losing TKO to Dustin Poirier in July 2021, and a weight class has yet to be announced for the Irishman’s match against Chandler.
When asked if the fight would be lightweight or middleweight, McGregor laughed: “That’s what I said to him yesterday, ‘Do you know what weight we did? Are you okay with (middleweight)?!’
“Just being a buzz with him, he’s a good guy.”
Michael Chandler on the set of The Ultimate Fighter
(via @UFC Instagram)
McGregor also reiterated his decision to join. Ultimate FighterHis role in 2015 was to “immerse” himself in mixed martial arts as his layoff approached the two-year mark.
“I want to give back to the game, to pass on my wisdom and knowledge to the next generation,” he said. “I have always taken my motivation from hardworking people, from people chasing their dreams, from people who defy doubt, who don’t listen to outside noise, who are just dedicated to their goals. What better example than a reality show like this one where they come and fight for their lives? So, I feed that energy very well.”
Earlier this week, McGregor denied allegations that he replaced the contestants on his team with ‘his own men’..
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