SBG Ireland head coach John Kavanagh likes the Michael Chandler fight for Conor McGregor.
McGregor (22-6 MMA, 10-4 UFC) and Chandler (23-8 MMA, 2-3 UFC) will coach “The Ultimate Fighter 31” and are expected to fight after the show airs. It debuts May 30 on ESPN and ESPN+, with the conclusion of the season set for Aug. 15 after weekly episodes air on Tuesdays.
Kavanagh sees similarities in Chandler’s style with Chad Mendes, whom McGregor TKO’d in 2015 to capture the interim featherweight title at UFC 189.
“I think it could resemble a little bit the Mendes fight,” Kavanagh told Sherdog. “Mendes was that style: blocky guy, big punches, big double legs. I think that’s how it could go. Conor has a good record against those kind of orthodox, stocky wrestlers with big overhand rights and big double legs. It’s an exciting one to prepare for. Chandler, he’s an excellent fighter, he’s got a great resume.”
McGregor will return for the first time since breaking his leg in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. With millions in his bank account and continued success outside the octagon with his Proper No. 12 Irish whiskey and a role in the “Road House” remake with Jake Gyllenhaal, many continue to question McGregor’s desire to compete.
Kavanagh assures that McGregor still loves the sport.
“Yeah, he’s never stopped training,” Kavanagh said. “He’s in phenomenal shape, and there’s a real excitement in him. There’s a real buzz around him. And I’ll be honest: You know what will be the level of motivation when you’ve achieved the titles you’ve achieved, the money etc.? But, man, I’ve never seen him as pumped as I’ve seen him recently.
“I’m just really excited. He’s excited to be back. I’m excited to have him back. I think it’s great for Irish MMA in general. I think it’s fair to say it’s great for MMA in general. I have zero concerns about motivation. The motivation is there to show everybody that this is his world, this is his game.”
