Published 41 days ago
Why Conor McGregor’s botched return against Chandler could have given the UFC a second wind
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Conor McGregor’s failed return at UFC 329, marked by an injury within the first seconds against Max Holloway, reignites the debate over the initial opponent choice. Joe Rogan, on his podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, believes Michael Chandler would have been the ideal rival to revive the Irish legend.
To remember:
- Conor McGregor was injured within the first seconds of his fight against Max Holloway at UFC 329.
- Joe Rogan criticizes the choice of Max Holloway as the initial opponent for McGregor’s return.
- Rogan suggests that Michael Chandler, more aggressive and durable, would have provided a more balanced fight.
- A trilogy between McGregor and Holloway is still being considered despite the criticism.
- Chandler, combining power and wrestling technique, could have revived McGregor’s career in style.
The return of Conor McGregor at UFC 329 will go down as one of the most disappointing of his career. Injured within the first seconds of his fight against Max Holloway, the Irishman saw his octagon comeback cut brutally short. Yet, according to Joe Rogan, host of the famed podcast The Joe Rogan Experience, this choice of opponent was far from ideal. In a recent analysis, Rogan pointed to Michael Chandler as the perfect rival to revive McGregor’s legend.
A Missed Fight That Sparks Debate
For Rogan, Chandler would have been a far more suitable opponent than Holloway. Their rivalry, born during The Ultimate Fighter, promised an explosive clash between McGregor’s legendary striking and Chandler’s solid wrestling. A showdown that could have reignited interest in the Irishman’s return. Chandler, more aggressive and durable, would have provided a more balanced fight, avoiding the pitfall of Holloway, known for his five-round stamina.
Why Chandler Would Have Been the Best Choice
Unlike Holloway, Chandler is a fighter who relies on a more physical and technical approach. His wrestling experience and striking power make him a formidable opponent, capable of testing McGregor on every level. Rogan even emphasized that Chandler, originally slated for UFC 303, would have been the ideal partner for a successful return. A strategic choice that could have reignited the spark of a long-awaited fight.
What Now? A Trilogy with Holloway on the Horizon
Despite the criticism, a trilogy between McGregor and Holloway is still on the table. But for Rogan, the missed opportunity with Chandler remains a source of frustration. A fight between the two men could have delivered a more intense and less predictable spectacle than the one Holloway provided. The question now is whether the UFC will take these remarks into account for McGregor’s future bouts.