UFC 303 Shake-Up: McGregor Out, New Headliners In!
Fight Fans, Brace Yourselves! Conor McGregor will no longer be squaring off against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 on June 29 in Las Vegas. UFC President Dana White broke the news Thursday night, leaving many fans stunned.
New Main Event Announced
- Light Heavyweight Title Fight: Alex Pereira vs. Jiří Procházka
- Co-Main Event: Diego Lopes vs. Brian Ortega
- Light Heavyweight Bout: Carlos Ulberg vs. Anthony Smith
The change comes as McGregor (22-6) pulled out due to an injury, marking the first time in his illustrious UFC career that he's withdrawn from a fight. This pivot has led to a fresh lineup that promises to keep the excitement high.
A Record-Breaking Night?
According to White, the event was already on track to set a record with a live gate of over $20 million. With the revamped card, the UFC is confident that the energy and enthusiasm will remain through the roof.
McGregor's Return Postponed
The June fight was supposed to be McGregor's big comeback since his leg injury in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. The Irish star, who has fought only four times since his 2017 boxing spectacle against Floyd Mayweather Jr., was eager to make a triumphant return. His UFC record stands at 1-3 in his last appearances, with notable losses to Poirier and a submission defeat to Khabib Nurmagomedov in a 2018 title fight.
McGregor had teased fans with promises of the "Greatest Comeback in Sports History" on Twitter. The UFC had even scheduled a public news conference with McGregor and Chandler in Dublin on June 3, which was abruptly canceled, fueling speculation about the fight’s status.
Chandler's Perspective
Michael Chandler, a former Bellator MMA champion, hasn't fought since a thrilling match against Poirier at UFC 281 in November 2022. Initially calling out McGregor in 2022, Chandler's clash with the Irish fighter became a much-anticipated saga. The pair even coached against each other on "The Ultimate Fighter" reality series in early 2023, but the fight date was elusive until early this year.
Chandler, 38, has hinted at other potential fights, showing interest in bouts against Nate Diaz or BMF titleholder Max Holloway.
USADA Controversy
McGregor’s situation with the UFC’s former drug testing partner, the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), added another layer of drama. USADA claimed that the UFC wanted to exempt McGregor from a six-month testing requirement post-injury, which led to their split. UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell refuted these claims, demanding a public apology. The UFC has since engaged other agencies for its drug testing program.
What’s Next?
As for the McGregor vs. Chandler fight, there's no word yet on rescheduling. But rest assured, the UFC 303 card promises to deliver thrilling fights, unexpected twists, and record-setting moments!
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