“He’s Done Horrible”: Team Khabib Warns Conor McGregor as Chael Sonnen Exposes “Unfinished Business” With Michael Chandler

Conor McGregor‘s chances of making a big return to the UFC are fading, with Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s coach, Javier Mendez, providing a critical perspective. In a recent interview, Mendez compared McGregor’s approach to that of boxing icon Bernard Hopkins while also giving a final verdict on his fighting career. While there is no denying that his commercial pursuits have been undoubtedly successful, Mendez shared his belief in McGregor as a fighter and why he is no longer a powerful force in the Octagon like he once used to be.

In a recent interview with Tracy Harmoush, Coach Mendez’s critique of McGregor’s current status extended beyond his cage performances. He noted that, while boxing legend Bernard Hopkins lived a strict lifestyle that made him win the world title at the age of 49 and retire at 51, McGregor’s excesses had a negative impact on his fighting career that ended way too soon. ‘The Notorious,’ once a symbol of dedication and focus, has strayed from the path, adopting a lifestyle that the team Khabib coach believes has diminished his potential as a fighter. He said, “He’s completely the opposite, and look where he’s at. He’s a perfect example of somebody that, as a fighter—not as a businessman; as a businessman, we know he’s done fantastic—but as a fighter, as a fighter he’s done horrible lately.”

Mendez is not alone in questioning the Irishman’s future in MMA. Former UFC fighter and promoter Chael Sonnen also weighed in, citing McGregor’s alleged “unfinished business” with Michael Chandler. Sonnen, who has a personal connection to Chandler, slammed Conor McGregor’s assertions about the fight, claiming there was no actual business between the two fighters. ‘The American Gangster’ stated that the numbers for The Ultimate Fighter 31 were so poor that UFC had to bring in himself and Daniel Cormier to try to save the show. He also underlined that the former UFC double champion’s prior withdrawal from a fight with Chandler due to a minor injury cast doubt on McGregor’s dedication to the sport and the credibility of his alleged “unfinished business.”

The idea of a “stadium fight” as a prerequisite for McGregor’s comeback, which he expressed on X, has only added fuel to the fire. Many fans and pundits have slammed this wish, with some seeing it as an excuse for McGregor to avoid making a genuine comeback. Sonnen, too, criticized the concept, claiming that McGregor’s recent antics and uneven preparation had harmed his reputation as a top-tier fighter. ‘The American Gangster’ said, “You want to get a stadium against the same opponent that you had a contract for and didn’t show up. And I just don’t believe it. The same guy who pulled out of a press conference because of a discolored pinky toe, which may or may not have been broken. It may or may not have even belonged to him. I know Michael Chandler. I am friends with Michael Chandler. You have no business with Michael Chandler.”

According to Chael Sonnen, a fight between McGregor and Chandler, or any other opponent at this point, would lack the excitement and curiosity that ‘The Notorious’ seeks. McGregor’s lack of focus and discipline, which once propelled him to superstar status, is now too obvious to ignore. It is worth noting that Sonnen and Coach Javier Mendez aren’t the only ones to criticize Conor McGregor recently; even Ilia Topuria joined the team, as he warned Conor McGregor after talks of a super fight between the two.

Ilia Topuria sends a warning to Conor McGregor against fighting him

Before Javier Mendez and Chael Sonnen expressed their concerns about Conor McGregor’s deterioration, Ilia Topuria had previously raised the issue. The undefeated former featherweight champion was open about a possible fight with ‘The Notorious.’ Unlike those who still regard McGregor as a golden ticket, ‘La Leyenda’ was more concerned with the Irishman’s ability to really survive a war inside the cage. In fact, during an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, Topuria stated clearly that if ‘The Notorious’ tries to face him, he will have to “die and be born again.”

Ilia Topuria’s words cut deeper than just a flashy soundbite. They presented an image of a man who is no longer afraid of the aura that previously surrounded the former UFC double champion. He spoke openly about Conor McGregor’s declining condition, describing how his injuries, lifestyle, and inconsistent training have left obvious marks. He didn’t completely deny the possibility of fighting him—he even claimed to have quiet conversations with the UFC—but the Spanish-Georgian’s tone was one of caution rather than rivalry. He views ‘The Notorious’ as a man in decline who has already begun to pay the high price for years of indulgence and neglect.

And why is Topuria’s warning so striking? Well, that’s because it was motivated by observation rather than ego. He discussed the cost of weight cuts, the damage caused by parties and alcohol, and how all of this has eroded the very foundation that once made Conor McGregor great. ‘La Leyenda’ believes the bodily decline is not a rumor; it is obvious, true, and irreversible. In his mind, McGregor doesn’t need another fight. He needs a reset, a resurrection. And if that doesn’t happen before he returns to the cage—especially against someone like Topuria—he’ll be in for more than just a loss. What do you think? Will McGregor be able to make a successful return? Let us know in the comments.