Chael Sonnen has outlined why Conor McGregor continues to be the UFC’s hottest determine heading into 2026, even after staying inactive for almost 5 years.
Whereas ‘The Infamous’ has expressed curiosity in combating on the UFC White Home Card and is doing all the things he can to return this yr on June 14, Sonnen thinks the Irishman will probably retire.
Sonnen says that McGregor retired the day he pulled out of his UFC 303 battle towards Michael Chandler in 2024. The UFC Corridor of Famer holds the identical stance thus far.
In his view, McGregor is advertising himself to maintain the fighter’s picture alive, understanding that if the picture dies, the individual follows. Subsequently, regardless of ‘The Infamous’ placing out coaching clips and extra to make followers know the way excited he’s to return and face Chandler, Sonnen isn’t satisfied.
Nevertheless, the 48-year-old believes McGregor to be the primary fighter in 2026, regardless of not having thrown a punch in years.
The UFC Corridor of Famer says Conor possesses one thing extra valuable than a UFC belt, that’s, the “mandate of the plenty.”
“My bigger level isn’t the facility or the suggestive energy that Conor wields, however Conor’s bought the most important factor which you could have on this sport, which is the mandate of the plenty. Way more vital than having a belt. Way more vital on this house than having million-dollar paydays or primary occasions, or back-end participation. You probably have the mandate of the plenty, as a byproduct, I imply, simply just by default, you should have primary occasions, title alternatives, backend factors, and participations.”
Try Chael Sonnen’s feedback beneath (2:40):
Michael Chandler confirms Conor McGregor showdown
As per Michael Chandler, he and Conor McGregor will battle on the UFC White Home card. ‘Iron’ had beforehand mentioned that ‘The Infamous’ has introduced in guys in his coaching camp to imitate Chandler’s type, and the battle is a finished deal. Each have verbally confirmed the bout.
Most not too long ago, Chandler mentioned this on the CBS NYE broadcast:
“It does sound like I’ll be handing Conor McGregor a superb ol’ usual bu*t whooping on the South Garden of the White Home someday this summer time. That’s the plan.”
Try Michael Chandler’s feedback beneath:
