Conor McGregor expresses disappointment about missing out on Michael Chandler fight at UFC 303: "Deep mental pain"

Conor McGregor has admitted he is struggling to watch UFC 303 coverage, following his withdrawal from his bout against Michael Chandler.

'The Notorious' had originally been scheduled to headline the International Fight Week card on June 29, however, it was confirmed last week he had suffered a broken toe whilst training and was forced out of the fight. The delay in his return means it will now be over three years since he last appeared in the octagon.

Stepping into Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler's place is Alex Pereira and Jiri Prochazka. 'Poatan' will put his light heavyweight title on the line against 'Denisa', having first won the belt via a second round TKO when the pair fought for the vacant title at UFC 295.

With the pay-per-view all set for the weekend, UFC 303's media day and press conferences took place this week featuring every fighter on the card. Clips of the interviews and the pressers have understandably done the rounds on social media, leading to McGregor having his say.

The Irishman, who is often accused of not having the same love for the sport since becoming a star, took to X and revealed he is devastated not be fighting this weekend. He also thanked fans for their support following the news of his injury. He tweeted:

"I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't in deep pain right now watching fight week take place. Deep mental pain. Thank you for the messages of support and encouragement, my peers and fans💖🙏🍀"

Check out Conor McGregor's tweet here:

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Daniel Cormier believes Alex Pereira is replacing Conor McGregor as the new face of the UFC

Daniel Cormier has praised Alex Pereira for stepping up on short notice to headline the UFC 303 card this weekend.

Since making his debut in 2021, 'Poatan' has fought eight times in the promotion, become a multiweight champion and headlined UFC 300. According to Cormier, Pereira's activity means he is slowly but surely overtaking Conor McGregor as the face of the promotion.

Speaking during a media segment at the 2024 UFC Hall of Fame inductions, 'DC' said:

When you are trying to have that as your title [the face of the UFC]... This man here, because of his consistency, because of his activity, because of the time he spends in the octagon is why people respect him. Look McGregor will always be the biggest star the UFC has ever seen. But Conor McGregor doesn't fight anymore. It's this guy, right here. And it's this guy, because this guy shows up. You never can appreciate anyone that is not here. This guy is always here."

Catch Cormier's comments here (8:05):