Thu. Jul 3rd, 2025

UFC Fighter Claims Conor McGregor ‘Destroyed’ Michael Chandler’s Career

A prominent UFC Lightweight fighter believes Conor McGregor has negatively impacted Michael Chandler`s career more significantly than Paddy Pimblett.

Michael Chandler spent 735 days away from fighting between his bouts with Dustin Poirier and Charles Oliveira. A large portion of this time was dedicated to coaching on ‘The Ultimate Fighter 31’ and preparing for a fight with Conor McGregor, which was initially planned.

However, Chandler never received the anticipated lucrative fight with McGregor. The Irish fighter withdrew from their scheduled UFC 303 match last summer citing a toe injury.

The McGregor vs. Chandler fight was not rescheduled, leading Chandler to eventually move on.

After a two-year layoff, Chandler returned to fight Charles Oliveira and suffered a loss. Most recently, at UFC 314, he was defeated by Paddy Pimblett in the third round.

Renato Moicano: Michael Chandler`s Decline is Conor McGregor`s Fault

At 38, Michael Chandler is currently experiencing the longest losing streak of his career, prompting many to suggest he should retire.

While some attribute Chandler’s recent struggles to his inactivity, Renato Moicano, a former UFC title challenger, believes Conor McGregor is the one to blame.

“Many will criticize me for speaking negatively about Michael Chandler,” Moicano stated on the Show Me The Money Podcast.

“But in reality, McGregor ruined his career, man.”

“I truly believe it’s McGregor’s fault.”

“Two years of no fights, just waiting and waiting… especially at his age, you know?”

Renato Moicano: ‘You Can`t Rely on Conor McGregor’

Chandler, a veteran with 33 professional fights, is showing signs of age, evident in his uneven performance against Paddy Pimblett.

Chandler waited longer than perhaps he should have for the McGregor fight, which would have been the biggest of his career. However, he did remain healthy and prepared for UFC 303 last summer.

McGregor`s withdrawal from the Chandler fight was unprecedented in his UFC career. The superstar has not been scheduled for a fight since.

“You can`t rely on McGregor,” Moicano concluded.

“He’s even talking about running for President of Ireland. Imagine that…”

Tags:
Conor McGregor
Michael Chandler
Renato Moicano
UFC

By Adrian Whitmore

Adrian Whitmore, 41, brings over fifteen years of experience covering tennis and golf tournaments from his base in Liverpool. His distinctive storytelling approach combines statistical analysis with behind-the-scenes insights.

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