Michael Chandler Expresses Frustration Over Conor McGregor’s Failure to Appear for USADA Testing
The future of former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor remains shrouded in uncertainty, with no signs of clarity emerging.
Following a devastating leg injury sustained during his bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021, McGregor has endured an extensive period of recovery.
Despite an initial announcement earlier this year regarding his comeback, details surrounding his return remain elusive.
In a recent development, it was revealed that Conor McGregor’s opponent for his highly anticipated comeback fight would be none other than Michael Chandler.
The plan included a unique twist, as both fighters were expected to engage in a coaching rivalry on the latest season of The Ultimate Fighter before stepping into the Octagon to settle their differences.
Despite the ongoing season of The Ultimate Fighter on ESPN, there seems to be no progress in terms of confirming a specific date for the long-awaited McGregor vs. Chandler showdown in the Octagon.
Moreover, discussions surrounding Michael Chandler’s USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) status have begun to test his patience, further adding to the frustrations surrounding the potential bout.
The first signs of frustration are beginning to emerge from Michael Chandler as the uncertainty surrounding Conor McGregor’s situation continues.
Since Conor McGregor’s comeback was announced, much attention has been focused on his decision to step away from the USADA testing pool during his rehabilitation from injury.
Despite some initial discussions and negotiations, the anti-doping agency firmly asserted that Conor McGregor, the former two-division champion, must adhere to a six-month testing period and provide two clean samples before being eligible to compete.
The issue surrounding McGregor’s compliance with the testing requirements has become a prominent topic of conversation, especially considering the recent passing of the deadline for his anticipated return in 2023.
Curiously, the USADA database shows no records of any tests conducted by McGregor, although this does not necessarily indicate that he failed to enter the testing pool before the deadline.
Michael Chandler, in a video shared on Twitter, hinted at McGregor’s continued absence from the testing program, adding fuel to the ongoing speculation.
Chandler Ironically express his frustration on twitter in a video
“Alright guys. You guys have all seen the news, Conor’s not in USADA,” Chandler said. “179 days left until December 16, which is supposed to be the last pay-per-view of the year. And comically, USADA shows up at my door today, to add insult to injury. Where you at, boy?”
Chandler caption the post by saying McGregor’s famous line
“Where the fook is that guy?” Chandler wrote.
While concerns have been raised by some, the prospect of Conor McGregor making a return in 2023 still holds potential.
The uncertainty surrounding McGregor’s re-entry into the USADA testing pool ahead of the December 16 event remains unconfirmed.
Additionally, the UFC has the authority to grant McGregor an exemption from the standard testing protocols.
Although such a decision might attract criticism, Michael Chandler himself appears open to the idea.
He previously indicated his willingness to face McGregor after the completion of two clean tests, even without the mandatory six-month testing pool requirement.
