Michael Chandler has voiced his frustration over Conor McGregor's failure to enroll in the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
As both fighters serve as coaches on TUF 31, their upcoming clash in the Octagon is highly anticipated. McGregor, however, has been absent from the Octagon since suffering a leg injury in 2021 during his defeat against Dustin Poirier.
Although he has undergone an extensive rehabilitation process, he has not enrolled with the US Anti-Doping Agency’s regulations, as he has exited the UFC’s active athletes’ pool to concentrate on his recuperation.
Michael Chandler confirms Conor Mcgregor is NOT in the USADA testing pool.
— Andrew Marky (@amarkydream) June 21, 2023
This will likely make him ineligible to fight in 2023…
On June 16, 2023, Conor McGregor was issued a 48-hour ultimatum to join the USADA testing program if he intended to participate in UFC 296 later in the year.
In order to be eligible for competition, McGregor needed to submit two negative samples before the six-month testing pool deadline. However, the 'Notorious' fighter's actions have left Michael Chandler feeling frustrated and disappointed.
No joke… WHERE THE FOOK IS THAT GUY? pic.twitter.com/pX5RmOFSdK
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) June 21, 2023
“Alright guys, you guys have all seen the news: Conor’s not in USADA. One hundred and seventy-nine 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?”
Nevertheless, it is important to consider the following aspect: McGregor recently faced allegations of sexual assault while attending the NBA Finals in Miami, which he vehemently denied.
Given the unresolved nature of these allegations, McGregor's return to the fighting scene may be uncertain for the time being. However, as coaches on TUF 31, the duo continues their involvement in the show.
In the fourth episode, a recurring theme unfolded as Michael Chandler's team maintained their dominance with a 4-0 record. Timur Valiev secured a unanimous decision victory over Trevor Wells, showcasing Wells' initial strength in striking and grappling, which allowed him to claim the first round.
However, the momentum drastically shifted from that point onward, as Valiev's right hand found its mark, repeatedly connecting with Wells' chin in the second round. Valiev's wrestling prowess further contributed to his triumph, securing a successful takedown. With Chandler's team enjoying yet another victory, Team McGregor must find a way to reverse the tide.