"Will become the greatest motivational speaker before he beats Conor" - Fans react as Michael Chandler continues working with no opponent in sight

Without a confirmed date for his return, fans are unsure what to make of Michael Chandler as he nears the end of his career. The lightweight does not make the situation any easier to predict with his pattern of social media posts.

Chandler's latest post on Sept. 12 featured more workout footage from his strength and conditioning routine with another cryptic caption. 'Iron' said in his post that he "hasn't stopped working" and his return to the cage is "imminent" but gave no further information as he seemingly continues to be without a confirmed fight.

The reactions to the post were split. The 38-year-old still has a loyal fanbase, evidenced by those commenting their support for Chandler beneath his post. Others, however, mocked the fighter for his everlasting saga with Conor McGregor.

One fan in the latter category commented:

"Bro will become the greatest motivational speaker before he beats [Conor]"

Fan mocking Michael Chandler on Instagram. [Image courtesy: @mikechandlermma on Instagram]

Other fans commented:

"Yeah, okay Mikey"

"When. When's the date?"

"I hate the fact Conor wasted your time"

View more fan reactions to Michael Chandler's latest training video below:

Reactions to Michael Chandler's latest Instagram video. [Image courtesy: @mikechandlermma on Instagram]

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Will Michael Chandler fight Conor McGregor?

Since late 2022, Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler have been linked to one another in a fight that has continued to escape reality. The two were finally booked to headline UFC 303 before McGregor withdrew with an injury and despite the UFC being adamant in keeping the matchup together, both fighters have remained sidelined.

Rumors circled that the UFC is targeting the fight for UFC 310 in December but no pay-per-view headliner beyond UFC 308 has been confirmed. However, ESPN analyst Chael Sonnen claims he has heard that the fight is being targeted for UFC 311 in January 2025.

It will end a more than two-year-long layoff for both, once they meet in the octagon. At 38, the time off would figure to hurt Chandler more, though McGregor will be coming off a broken leg he suffered in July 2021.