Halfway through 2023 and fans are still eagerly waiting for an update on Conor McGregor. The Irishman’s comeback is the most anticipated event of this year and as the year is coming to a close, the fans are getting anxious. However, it appears good news is finally on its way.

‘The Notorious’ already has an opponent in sight, as he will face Michael Chandler at a yet-to-decided event. Before the fans cherish his stealthy but deadly left jab, McGregor has to comply with the USADA’s rules and subject himself to mandatory six-month testing. With his failure to admit himself in the pool, doubts have been cast on the Irish fighter’s appetite for Octagon action. But the 34-year-old’s manager recently disclosed the camp is indeed gearing up for the showdown with ‘Iron’.

Is Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler’s fight hanging by a thread?

Audie Attar, in an exclusive interview with Daily Mail, suggested not to rule out a McGregor special this year. Further, he informed the recent results of The Ultimate Fighter shouldn’t be taken as a parameter for the future fight.

He said, “Listen, you can’t rule this year out, but we’re definitely gearing up for a strong duel with Michael Chandler. The Ultimate Fighter is obviously airing right now on ESPN. Our team doesn’t do that well on the show. But that doesn’t mean the real fight will end the same way.”

Notably, the ‘Mystic Mac’ is experiencing a run devoid of luck on TUF. With the latest episode out to watch, he trails by 0-7. Despite the abysmal record, the Paradigm CEO believes the charm of the fight will remain unaffected. Further, he also foresees a fight happening early next year if it runs into a hiccup.

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Attar declared, “So I’m looking forward to this duel. It’s going to be a great duel against Chandler. Wait for it to happen, if not later this year. Certainly. Certainly. Let’s do it early next year.”

Read More: As Michael Chandler Gets a New Fight Offer After USADA Deadline, Conor McGregor Challenged by “Who the F**k Is That Guy” Fame Jeremy Stephens for a Boxing Match

Attar’s latest comments come as a glimmer of hope to the fans and are also in line with the Dubliner’s recently deleted tweet. McGregor, when asked on Twitter about his clash with American fighter, dropped a one-word response. He wrote, “December”. This also aligns with former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub‘s projection that UFC is targeting a December timeline for the thrilling match.

What do you think of these statements by Audie Attar regarding McGregor’s comeback? Do you believe he will be back in the ring in 2023? Let us know in the comments below.

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