Michael Chandler is hoping to finally settle a rivalry on the biggest stage possible.
Conor McGregor has already named Chandler as the opponent whom he will face at the UFC’s event at the White House in 2026.
The two men were previously set to collide inside the Octagon at UFC 303 last year, until an injury led to the Irishman withdrawing several weeks out.
McGregor has gone as far as to claim that his comeback is already official for this particular event.
In a recent interview with Bloody Elbow, his former rival coach on The Ultimate Fighter provided his response to the talks of him facing ‘The Notorious’ next year.
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Michael Chandler provides an update on whether he will wait to fight Conor McGregor at the White House
While Conor McGregor is unsure about the future of his career with the UFC, he’s still certain about competing at the White House.
Michael Chandler said last month that he’s confident that the matchup will finally happen at this event after he has spent years waiting for it to take place.
In a recent exclusive interview with Bloody Elbow, the former lightweight title challenger was asked what the latest update is on him fighting McGregor and whether he plans to wait until the White House event before making his return.
“We have some history,” Chandler said. “I’m the opponent that he wants. He’s the opponent that I want. And it would be one heck of an event if it happened.”
When Chandler was asked about if there’s anything he still wants to accomplish in his career, he again looked ahead to 2026, which suggests that he won’t be in action before then.
“I’ve got plenty left in the tank and obviously there are some big fights coming up next year that I’d love to participate in.”
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Michael Chandler is using his current down time to pursue other ventures while training
Michael Chandler has received criticism in recent years for choosing to wait for Conor McGregor, which has taken time away from his career.
In a recent episode of the JRE MMA Show (#170), Joe Rogan spoke about some of the crazy fights that Chandler has been in and how he has been able to extend his run in the sport.
“Chandler is still remarkably durable, but that’s just a discipline thing and a hard work thing… But, he’s 38 now.”
While he continues to stick to his strict training routines, Chandler also told Bloody Elbow about how his down time has given him the opportunity to pursue other ventures.
For example, ‘Iron’ Mike recently partnered with Phorm Energy, the energy drink line that Dana White invested in earlier this year.
“Phorm Energy is a brand that stands for grit, peak performance, and the relentless pursuit of pushing beyond limits – values I live by every day,” Chandler said. “I’m pumped to team up with Phorm Energy and bring fans along for the ride as we create something powerful together. This partnership isn’t just about energy – it’s about inspiring people to unlock their full potential.”