UFC lightweight Michael Chandler may have lost to Justin Gaethje in New York, but Conor McGregor seems to have been attracted to him.
Chandler (22-27) lost unanimously to Gaethje in UFC 268 on Saturday. This was a three-round fight that is the front-runner for Fight of the year. Chandler was knocked down by Gaethje in round two, but he managed to survive and continue forward until the end. Both men were taken to the hospital immediately.
Chandler uploaded a modified photo via Twitter on Monday of McGregor and Chandler with the caption "2022." McGregor quickly responded.
For sure, I'm at some stage. Congratulation Mike on a great fight! Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA November 8, 2021
McGregor wrote, "I'm down on some stage for certain," "Great fight Mike, congrats!"
Chandler, who lives in Nashville, replied, "Thanks sir. It would be my pleasure. We will see you soon."
McGregor (26-2) has not fought since he broke his leg in July's first round loss to Dustin Pourier at UFC 264. McGregor, 33 years old, was injured in July. He underwent surgery and is still healing. He is expected back to competition in 2022.
McGregor is also in danger of being sued in Italy. Francesco Facchinetti, an Italian DJ, recently confirmed to ESPN that he had filed a criminal case against McGregor over an incident last month where McGregor allegedly hit him in the face and inflicted injuries to his neck.
McGregor has many options for his next opponent when he returns to the Octagon. McGregor expressed an interest in another fight with Poirier, who is currently 2-1 against him in a trio. He would be a good option to fight his two-time opponent Nate Diaz, who has one fight remaining on his UFC contract.
Chandler, a former Bellator MMA champion was close to winning the UFC title earlier in the year. After nearly finishing Oliveira the first round, he fought Charles Oliveira to win the vacant title. He lost via TKO in round 2. Since signing with UFC in 2020, he is now at 1-2.
