Fighters usually seize post-fight microphone moments to call out their next big opponent with theatrical flair. It’s become part of the sport’s entertainment formula: win impressively, then challenge someone famous while adrenaline pumps. Michael Chandler has mastered this art and fans love it. But this time, it was different.<\/p>
Chandler has been practically obsessed with fighting Conor McGregor since 2022, mentioning the Irishman in almost every interview. He’s waited patiently while McGregor recovered from injuries, dealt with legal troubles, and served suspensions. Everyone assumed Chandler would use his RAF 3 victory over Chad Mendes as another opportunity to publicly challenge McGregor. But he skipped the callout and the reason might change everything about how fans view this long-delayed matchup’s status.<\/p>
Chandler headed into RAF 3 with one goal in mind: shake off the rust and prove he’s still elite. He accomplished exactly that, cruising through the contest and securing a clean victory over Mendes in Chicago. But instead of shouting McGregor’s name when handed the microphone, Chandler called out Olympic wrestling hero Jordan Burroughs. Fans were completely confused by this unexpected pivot from someone who’s been glued to the McGregor narrative for years.<\/p>
Within hours, Chandler knew he had to explain why the man he had been chasing suddenly wasn’t worth mentioning. He posted a video message keeping things simple. He stated he wasn’t going to call out McGregor (22-6)<\/a> at a wrestling match because he’d already done enough talking. Then he dropped the main line. This is what he stated:<\/p> “The fight’s already happening… been signed, sealed, and delivered since June of 2024….I’ll fight Conor in June, South Lawn, White House.”<\/em><\/strong><\/p>