- Michael Chandler talked about coaching against Conor McGregor at The Ultimate Fighter Season 31
- “Iron” admitted “The Notorious” earned more of his respect
Shortly after Conor McGregor previewed his epic face-off with Michael Chandler at The Ultimate Fighter Season 31, “Iron” spoke about what it was like to coach against “The Notorious” in the show.
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) March 19, 2023
Game recognize game
Contrary to what many assume, Chandler said his respect for McGregor “increased” as the competition progresses.
“Overall, people have asked, ‘Hey, has your respect for Conor gone up or gone down after doing the show?’ I can say this without a shadow of a doubt, I already respected the guy a lot, not just as an athlete but as a businessman, with what he’s done in the sport. The sport of mixed martial arts is better when he is in it, he is healthy, and he is fighting and he’s put on these huge shows. My respect level has increased,” Chandler said on his YouTube channel.
The former UFC title challenger continued.
“Even though there were some times when there was some tension. Even though were some times that have been documented now by myself, Dana, or Conor… In the spirit of competition, tempers flare, things were said, things were done… But ultimately, all is fair in love and war. And all is fair in mixed martial arts. It was some good old fashioned, very very passionate dudes, he and his team, me and my team, who just came to the show… for a common goal which is to win all the fights, to win this competition so,… The relationship was great at times, it was not so great at times and it was a lot of fun, though.”
A forthcoming blockbuster fight
Chandler’s comments surely got UFC fans more excited about the premiere of TUF 31. However, what the majority of the fans are really looking forward to is the season finale showdown between Chandler and McGregor.
A potential date is yet to be determined but UFC president Dana White said they have already shortlisted the Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium in Dallas and Madison Square Garden in New York as among the possible venues.
TUF 31’s season premiere will air on May 30 on ESPN and the final episode will be on Aug. 15
