Conor McGregor's return to the octagon will come against Michael Chandler later this year. 'The Notorious' recently hinted that he may call for a welterweight title shot if he defeats his opponent.
Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman, who will fight for the welterweight title at UFC 286 this weekend, weighed in on potentially facing the former double champ for the belt.
Speaking at the UFC 286 pre-fight press conference, 'Rocky' stated:
"As the king, I welcome all challengers so whoever comes can get it... Him and whoever comes next. Now, I'm focused on Kamaru Usman. I believe that he's the toughest challenge right now in the division, and I'm focused on that. Whoever comes next, that's what it is, you know?"
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'The Nigerian Nightmare' said:
"I've always said I'd welcome it, so if it happens, it happens."
Check out Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman's comments on Conor McGregor below (starting at the 13:39 mark):
There will likely be plenty of fans who don't believe Conor McGregor is deserving of a welterweight title opportunity for defeating the No.5-ranked lightweight.
Despite this, both Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman are seemingly open to the idea of facing 'The Notorious'. The former double champ has headlined the six best-selling pay-per-view events in UFC history and guarantees his opponents a massive payday.
Conor McGregor's return: What did 'The Notorious' say about a welterweight title shot?
Conor McGregor is set to make his return to the octagon against Michael Chandler after the pair coached opposing sides on season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani of The MMA Hour, the former double champ revealed that the fight will take place at welterweight. When asked if he believes he will receive a title opportunity with a victory, 'The Notorious' responded:
"Yeah, I'd like so. I would like that. I may be present for the [UFC 286] card. We're making moves at the Black Forge in London, and I was scheduled to go out there after this. [Gunnar Nelson] is also on the card so it would be good to see him live, and it would be good to watch that welterweight title for sure."
Check out Conor McGregor's comments on fighting at welterweight below:
It's unclear if McGregor will receive a title opportunity after the bout, however, his massive drawing power seemingly has him one win away from fighting for the belt.
While the date and location of the bout have not been announced, it appears that the pair will clash at welterweight. 'The Notorious' has not entered the octagon since breaking his leg at UFC 264 nearly two years ago.