Michael Chandler eager to coach TUF alongside Conor McGregor, wants to fight the Irishman next

With news emerging that Conor McGregor is ready to make a sensational return to The Ultimate Fighter to spearhead another season, a number of fighters have thrown their names into the hat to coach alongside the Irishman, with Michael Chandler being the latest.

Despite having a negative record in the UFC, 'Iron' has quickly become a fan favorite in the lightweight division after a five-fight run featuring nothing but entertaining outings.

Although he lost his last fight in the octagon, the NCAA Division I Wrestler is still a huge name and a viable option to coach on TUF.

While discussing the news surrounding Conor McGregor's potential return to the reality show on the Believe You Me podcast, Chandler made a case for him to be the man facing off against the former two-division champion, both as a coach and subsequent opponent in the cage:

"Obviously, everybody knows I would be down. Me, Conor, on TUF, whether it be four-six weeks, however long we would be filming that thing. The tension, the rivalry, the competition, the trash talk, just the animosity that would be built up and then go into a training camp and fight later on after the show." [h/t MMA Fighting]

Catch the full interview below:

Since hearing the news, fans have been clamoring for Michael Chandler to be given the green light by the UFC to serve as the opposing coach across from McGregor.

If 'The Notorious' accepts the challenge, it will be the first time he has been in and around the octagon since the unfortunate leg break he endured during his last appearance in the sport.

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Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler's brief history

Since arriving in the UFC two years ago, Michael Chandler has had his heart set on a potential clash against Conor McGregor. The two lightweights have both openly stated their interest in the matchup.

The pair shared a moment with one another ahead of UFC 257, and although they're often cordial, both men believe they will have the upper hand if they ever do meet inside the cage.

After McGregor insisted his first fight back in the sport would be at welterweight, Chandler was quick to comment, claiming he wants to face the superstar at "his biggest, his baddest, his best, and his most dangerous."