Once a reigning UFC champion, Conor McGregor has yet to step back into the octagon since his defeat against Dustin Poirier, where he suffered a broken leg. Despite years away from the ring, his recent return to the drug testing pool signals he is gearing up for competition and remains committed to his trainings.
Speculations arise about McGregor's re-entry into fighting at a rumored 185 pounds.
Bisping, voicing caution regarding certainty with McGregor's fights stated, "Does Conor McGregor versus Michael Chandler happen on June 28th 185 pounds? I don't know, you never know with McGregor."
Michael Chandler stands as a tested MMA combatant ready to take on McGregor. The match, if it proceeds, promises high stakes for both fighters. Chandler's own credentials suggest he will not be an easy opponent.
Bisping weighed in further on the potential clash suggesting that "In the first round he'd be able to knockout Chandler but after that he'd be a sitting duck and far too tired." It's clear Bisping identifies a window of opportunity for McGregor early in the fight with diminishing chances as rounds progress.
"I think there's a very good chance that Conor knocks him out in round one because he'll land a shot and he's known for that left hand," Bisping said during an interview with Betway.
Emphasizing the Irishman's prolific striking power which could lead to an early victory. Still, this weakens as stamina becomes a central concern perhaps leading Chandler to take control should the fight extend beyond round one.
Uncertainty shadows over the exact weight class they would contend in. There are debates over whether it will be set at 185, 170, or even 155 pounds – McGregor has notably fought at both lightweight and welterweight during his career. Chandler’s willingness seems anchored mostly by financial incentive rather than weight class particulars.
In terms of marketability and fan base strength, it is highly anticipated that even if defeated by Chandler past round one or not competing entirely – McGregor's celebrity standing within MMA will hardly suffer impact; discussions of a lucrative Diaz trilogy continue nonetheless.
This fight encompasses more than just two athletes facing off – it traces back through injury and overcoming adversity for McGregor alongside Michael Chandler eyeing up what could be both lucrative recognition bump plus career-affecting triumph against an eminent fighting figure like McGregor.
Should 'The Notorious' fail at securing early dominance through knockout – propelled mainly by his signature left hand – it seems relying on late-round tenacity may not be favorable for him against Chandler as fatigue becomes pivotal in this scenario.
The question stands upon whether we shall witness explosive prowess or endurance rule the day within T-Mobile Arena come June-end during potentially one of this year’s pivotal UFC showcases.