Despite the cloud of uncertainty over Conor McGregor’s comeback, UFC commentator Jon Anik is hopeful that the ex-two-division champion will face off against Michael Chandler in the coming nine months.
McGregor, previously coaching against Chandler in The Ultimate Fighter’s Season 31, has recently been caught up in media reports related to a sexual assault allegation from Game 4 of the NBA Finals in Miami. McGregor and his attorneys have categorically denied the accusations, and the incident is currently under investigation.
Notwithstanding the controversy, Anik maintains his optimistic stance.
“Should you have asked me two days prior to the Miami accusation, perhaps I would have been more positive. However, I still hold a strong belief that we will see him no later than the beginning of 2024,” Anik disclosed to MMA Hook. “I’m still confident that Conor McGregor will make a competitive comeback, possibly leading him to an active competition cycle.
“I must acknowledge that his leg injury in 2021 altered everything. Despite his immense wealth, McGregor’s passion lies in competing in the UFC. The leg break was a significant hurdle. Regardless of opinions on his recovery process, it was a considerable setback. Chris Weidman, who also broke his leg, is still absent from the ring. If not for this unfortunate event, we would have seen McGregor much earlier.”
McGregor sustained the leg injury during his first-round TKO defeat to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. His status in the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency’s testing pool, coupled with the allegations against him, casts uncertainty over the potential Chandler fight. Chandler himself expressed reservations about the bout earlier this week.
While Anik acknowledges Chandler’s apprehensions, he remains hopeful that the former Bellator champion and the ex-two-division UFC champion will square off before the year concludes.
“I remain somewhat hopeful that we will see him in the year’s final pay-per-view,” Anik said. “I believe exceptions could be made in regards to USADA to expedite the process. However, the current news cycle surrounding the Miami allegations adds another layer of doubt to this potential return.
“If you’re Michael Chandler, following the headlines mid-June, you might be less enthusiastic than a week ago. Nevertheless, I’m confident we’ll witness McGregor’s return, and hopefully not just once, but two or three consecutive times.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Conor McGregor’s Return
What does Jon Anik believe about Conor McGregor’s return?
Jon Anik, a UFC commentator, is hopeful that Conor McGregor will make a comeback to the ring by the first quarter of 2024, despite the legal allegations against McGregor and his previous injuries. He also anticipates that McGregor will face Michael Chandler within the next nine months.
What legal issues is Conor McGregor facing?
Conor McGregor is currently facing a sexual assault allegation that surfaced during Game 4 of the NBA Finals in Miami. McGregor and his legal team have staunchly denied the allegations, which are still under investigation.
What injury did Conor McGregor sustain, and how did it affect him?
In July 2021, Conor McGregor suffered a leg injury during his first-round TKO loss to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. According to Jon Anik, this injury was a significant setback for McGregor, delaying his return to the UFC.
Who does Jon Anik hope McGregor will fight upon his return?
Jon Anik is hopeful that upon his return, McGregor will face off against Michael Chandler, a fight he believes could happen within the next nine months.
What doubts does Michael Chandler have about fighting McGregor?
Michael Chandler expressed doubt about the fight due to the sexual assault allegations against McGregor and the uncertainty over McGregor’s status in the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency’s testing pool.
More about Conor McGregor’s Return
- Jon Anik’s MMA career
- Conor McGregor’s career and controversies
- Michael Chandler’s UFC profile
- Details on UFC 264
- Information on The Ultimate Fighter Season 31
4 comments
Honestly, McGregor’s a fighter. He’s dealt with worse. He’ll bounce back from this stronger than ever. You just wait and see. #TeamMcGregor.
if this return happens, it gonna be lit! Mma needs characters like Conor. he brings the drama both inside and outside the ring… just hope he’s learned from his past mistakes.
man, what a drama, right?? Conors been through alot and still we all waitin’ for his return. Let’s see if it happens by early 2024. High hopes!
Honestly, Chandler deserves better. Not fair for him to be hanging in uncertainty. he’s a solid fighter and shouldnt be kept waiting.