Once a name synonymous with explosive performances and title aspirations, Michael Chandler now finds himself fading from the spotlight. The veteran, who once seemed destined for a ‘red panty night’ clash with Conor McGregor, saw that dream slip away — leaving his career in a prolonged standstill. After putting his prime years on hold for a fight that never came, the 39-year-old is now enduring a tough stretch, having gone 1-5 in his last six outings.

In recent months, however, Michael Chandler’s long-awaited matchup with the Irishman has once again found a glimmer of hope. Since July, anticipation has been building after Donald Trump announced plans for a UFC White House event at the presidential residence, scheduled for June 14. Though the event remains tangled in logistics, Conor McGregor fueled speculation when he declared, “[I’m fighting] Michael Chandler,” during his appearance on Fox & Friends. Even so, with uncertainty still looming, ‘Iron’ Mike appears ready to shift his focus; this time toward one of McGregor’s former rivals.

Michael Chandler set to face Chad Mendes at RAF 03

Michael Chandler is making a comeback but not inside the Octagon. Instead, the former UFC title challenger is heading back to his wrestling roots. Recently, on X, Combat Sports Today announced, “Michael Chandler and Chad Mendes will meet on the mats at #RAF03 🤼‍♂️.” The two ex-UFC standouts are set to collide in a freestyle wrestling showdown, with the promotion confirming that the third edition of Real American Freestyle Wrestling (RAF03) will take place at Chicago’s Wintrust Arena on November 29.

Interestingly, Michael Chandler’s opponent once shared the Octagon with Conor McGregor. Back in 2015, after José Aldo withdrew from his title fight due to a rib injury, the UFC booked an interim featherweight clash between McGregor and Mendes. McGregor found his rhythm in the second round, landing clean shots that led to a TKO win at 4 minutes and 57 seconds of Round 2, in a victory that made Mendes one of the Irishman’s defining former rivals.

For ‘Iron’ Mike, the upcoming wrestling matchup presents a fresh chance to reset his competitive journey. The 39-year-old last appeared at UFC 314, where he suffered a tough defeat against rising star Paddy Pimblett. Now, returning to the wrestling mats brings a touch of nostalgia for the Missouri native, who spent four collegiate years representing the University of Missouri. Chad Mendes, on the other hand, is equally at home on the mats.

The former UFC featherweight contender also tested himself in bare-knuckle boxing under the BKFC banner, though Mendes exited the organization before McGregor’s involvement began. Since then, he has stayed active in the grappling scene and is now eyeing ‘The Notorious’s opponent as his next target.

McGregor stands firm on facing Michael Chandler in his comeback bout

Conor McGregor has made it clear he wants only Michael Chandler for his long-awaited return fight. Their rivalry has simmered since they coached opposing teams on The Ultimate Fighter 31 in 2023, setting the foundation for one of the UFC’s most anticipated clashes. For Chandler, a matchup with the Irishman represents more than just competition; it’s the dream of sharing the spotlight on a blockbuster stage that could deliver massive pay-per-view success.

However, delays have marred the buildup. Conor McGregor’s consistent issues with USADA and growing focus on Hollywood projects have repeatedly pushed the fight off course. The bout was nearly finalized for UFC 303, but a last-minute pinky toe injury suffered by ‘The Notorious’ derailed plans once again. This prompted Dana White to explore other options, with frustration mounting, and fans labeling McGregor “unreliable.” Just as the fight seemed doomed, hope resurfaced when Donald Trump’s proposed UFC event at the White House reignited speculation.

With the card still in development, Conor McGregor has once again reaffirmed his intention to face Chandler on that stage. Speaking to Ariel Helwani during a Bare Knuckle event, he said, “I’m coming back with the White House,” McGregor declared. “I’m having fun with all this, but I’m under no illusion… my comeback for mixed martial arts is paramount. I’d love it to be Chandler… Something good is coming was what they said.”

With the UFC White House event far away, is Michael Chandler truly the right opponent for McGregor’s long-awaited return? Or would a welterweight contender like Colby Covington make for a more compelling matchup? Share your thoughts below.