Michael Chandler gives "Mystic Mike" prediction for Conor McGregor clash

It was recently confirmed that Michael Chandler will face Conor McGregor in the former double champ's highly anticipated return to the octagon. The No.5-ranked lightweight recently shared his prediction for the bout.

Speaking to Brett Okamoto of ESPN MMA, Chandler stated:

"I'm going to get in his space right away and make him take a backward step right away, and he's going to feel my presence from the very beginning of the fight and then from there wherever the fight takes us. If I want to pick him up and put him down, I can pick him up and put him down, and put a beating on him, and get a submission that way."

'Iron' added:

"I believe I finish Conor in the second round. That's my 'Mystic Mike' take on this later on this year whenever it is."

Chandler added that he visualizes himself landing a knockout with either an overhand right or a left hook. While the No.5-ranked lightweight has a background in wrestling, he has shown that he is willing to abandon that aspect of his game and stand and bang.

Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor are both in need of a victory as they are each 1-3 in their past four fights. The former double champ has won just one fight since 2016.

Watch Michael Chandler discuss his upcoming bout (starting at the 29:15 mark):

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When will Conor McGregor's fight with Michael Chandler take place?

Conor McGregor's opponent for his highly anticipated return has been announced, as the UFC's biggest star will face Michael Chandler. The pair will coach opposing teams on The Ultimate Fighter before facing off in the octagon. While a date is yet to be announced, don't expect to see the former double champ back in action before August.

The final episode of season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter will take place on August 15. Furthermore, McGregor is yet to re-enter the USADA testing pool, according to Damon Martin of MMA Fighting, who stated:

"As of today, Feb. 4, Conor McGregor still hasn't re-entered the USADA drug testing pool, per USADA officials. It's not required for TUF coaches (obviously) but he will still need 6 months of testing before fighting Michael Chandler. Full story coming to @MMAFighting"

Back in November 2022, McGregor announced that he would re-enter the USADA testing pool in February. While it is unclear when his return fight will take place, September currently appears to be the most likely option. The Ultimate Fighter will air on ESPN and ESPN+ from May 30 through August 15.

Check out Damon Martin and Conor McGregor's tweets below: