The potential fight between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor continues to divide opinions, but for Jon Anik, the official UFC commentator in the United States, the confrontation simply adds nothing to the lightweight division (up to 70,3 kg). In a recent appearance on the JAXXON Podcast, the journalist was direct in commenting on the scenario surrounding the return of the Irish star.
According to Anik, a potential fight between McGregor and Chandler would not have a significant sporting impact in the 70,3 kg category, especially since, in his view, the fight is likely to take place outside the lightweight division.
“I would love to see Conor McGregor back in the octagon. Chandler always represents the United States well and deserves to be on a big card, like UFC White House . But, for me, this fight means nothing within the lightweight division. They probably wouldn't even fight at that weight,” he stated.
When discussing more interesting alternatives, Anik surprised viewers by mentioning a Brazilian as an option for McGregor. Besides mentioning a possible rematch with Nate Diaz , the commentator included Mauricio Ruffy among the names he would like to see face the former champion.
"I would prefer to see Conor against Nate Diaz , against Mauricio Luffy, or against any other opponent who really brings something new," he added.
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Despite the uncertainties, Jon Anik believes that Conor McGregor should still return to the octagon in 2026. However, the commentator was cautious when speaking about the Irishman's reliability, even with the good relationship between him and the UFC president, Dana White.
"I think he'll come back, yes. But it's hard to count on it. It's not a matter of putting him on a preliminary card or anything like that... it's just that you can't always be sure," he said.
McGregor hasn't fought since January 2020, when he knocked out Donald Cerrone in just 40 seconds . He and Michael Chandler were even scheduled to coach the 31st season of The Ultimate Fighter and were set to headline UFC 303 in June 2024, but a toe injury suffered by the Irishman forced the fight to be cancelled. Since then, the bout has never been officially rescheduled.
Watch the full podcast where Jon Anik talks about Conor McGregor.
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