“But Then You Get in the Same Room…”: Ahead of His Much Anticipated Fight Against Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler Explains How TUF Helped Him “Humanise” the Former Champ

The Ultimate Fighter is returning with its 31st season. Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler will coach their teams for a shot at TUF glory. 16 fighters were handpicked out of dozens of applicants. The first episode airs on May 30, and the show runs until Aug 15. McGregor is a well-known figure who captures attention with his personality. But ‘Mystic Mike’ feels otherwise. Chandler, reflecting on his role in The Ultimate Fighter: Season 31, believes coaching opposite to McGregor was advantageous for him.

But how does this play out in the bigger picture of ‘The Ultimate Fighter’?

Humanizing the ‘notorious’: Chandler’s perspective on Conor McGregor

Team McGregor faces Team Chandler in TUF: S31, creating a buzz since the roster’s release. Chandler discussed his coaching experience on TUF with American podcast host Brendan Schaub, sharing his journey and memories.

He predicted the main card fight’s outcome and how defeating Conor would impact his opportunities in different divisions. Chandler believed that being part of TUF humanized Conor, benefiting him.

“But to spend that much time around him[Conor], the human being, being in the same room with him, you know just like you might have seen guys in the media and watched what they’ve done… But then you get in the same room with them and it humanizes them. You know it’s two arms and two legs and it’s a human being.”

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Reflecting on the experience, Chandler said that it was an interesting encounter.

“I actually think it was a good thing,” he admitted.

Beyond the persona: ‘humanizing’ McGregor

Chandler saw the human side of McGregor by being in the same room with him. McGregor’s public image carries a ‘mystique’, making it hard to see him differently. Interacting with McGregor in a relaxed setting showed Chandler a different side.

Brendan agreed that this interaction could impact Chandler’s approach to the fight. Chandler agreed, saying that the press conference creates a mystique, but spending time together is different.

“Yeah, instead of, you know because maybe the first time we see each other is at a press conference. Now you’re fighting against him on a press conference and he’s still that Mystique guy compared to spending your normal everyday life with them.”

Fans await the epic battle between these exceptional fighters. Chandler’s words highlight the power of personal connections and the ability to see beyond the surface.

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