Conor McGregor arrived to UFC’s Apex Facility on Friday to begin shooting for the 31st season of The Ultimate Fighter.
This marks his much-awaited return after his long injury layoff that he sustained at UFC 264 against Dustin Poirier. Since then, the Irishman enjoyed his life outside the Octagon as he recovered from the horrendous leg injury. However, his inactivity might prove a factor that might hinder his path to success when he faces Michael Chandler at the end of the season. But the former Bellator fighter believes otherwise.
Contrary to the popular belief, the American fighter expects a motivated ‘Mystic Mac’ to turn up. Further, he based his beliefs on the love the former UFC champion shares with the sports. In addition, the ‘Iron’ believes his opponent possesses the rare luxury of stepping away from the sports.
Chandler believes Conor McGregor carries the rare luxury
In an appearance on ESPN’s sportscaster, the host quizzed the 36-year-old about the advantage he might hold over McGregor due to the latter’s lengthy absence from the Octagon.
MONTE-CARLO, MONACO – MAY 28: Conor McGregor watches the action from the pitlane during qualifying ahead of the F1 Grand Prix of Monaco at Circuit de Monaco on May 28, 2022 in Monte-Carlo, Monaco.
Citing his recent extreme activeness, the lightweight fighter pointed out, “Conor has had the luxury of stepping away from the sport because he has a very padded bank account. He does live a life of luxury.”
But he also cautioned against the mistake of carving out a notion that the Irish fighter had lost his passion for mixed martial arts.
Thus, the former Bellator champion mentioned that the SBG Ireland product loved the attention and also the cameras. However, the Nashville resident further stated, “He loves the competition. He loves the blood and guts in the training of mixed martial arts. It’s his first love.”
Following this, the 23-8 record holder explained the impact the MMA had on the UFC cash cow’s life.
Chandler expects a motivated McGregor to turn up
Chandler thus put forth, “It was the one thing that has gotten him from laying on a couch being a plumber on welfare in Ireland and turned him into not just a worldwide icon but a multi-multi-millionaire.”
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 10: Conor McGregor of Ireland prepares to fight Dustin Poirier during the UFC 264 event at T-Mobile Arena on July 10, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)
Therefore, the #5 ranked lightweight stated McGregor could thank MMA, his first love for his accolades and fame. He summed up, “So I think we’re going to see a very motivated guy.”
Conor McGregor previously coached the 22nd season of TUF when he went toe-to-toe against UFC legend Urijah Faber. While he failed in his endeavor, he has another opportunity to achieve the same after 8 years.
What do you think of this statement by UFC star Michael Chandler about UFC champion Conor McGregor? Do you believe the Irishman possesses the luxury of living such a life? Let us know in the comments below.
