Ariel Helwani drops bombshell, says UFC running helter-skelter to find a "Plan B" for Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler clash for June 29
Ariel Helwani recently dropped a massive bombshell regarding UFC 303, which signifies that the Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler bout could be in jeopardy. There has been plenty of speculation regarding the bout, but the promotion haven't officially announced a cancellation, postponement, or replacement.
Fans have speculated on whether the highly anticipated welterweight main event was in doubt after their press conference in Dublin, Ireland was canceled. The UFC has posted promos on their social media accounts, while Chandler has posted training footage ahead of the event.
During today's episode of The MMA Hour, Ariel Helwani provided an update on the situation and noted that the promotion is looking at other options. He mentioned that the UFC are currently looking at a backup opponent for Chandler as well as other potential headliners to step in on short notice. He said:
"The positivity that I talked about exactly one week ago today is nowhere to be found. I would say this fight is very much in limbo. I would say that it's hanging on and I would say the UFC is working very very hard right now to figure out a plan B. Now, the plan B could be someone stepping in to fight Chandler or the plan C could be a whole new fight."
Check out Ariel Helwani's comments below:
Ariel Helwani isn't optimistic about Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler happening at UFC 303
Ariel Helwani noted that he isn't very optimistic about Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler happening at UFC 303.
During the aforementioned episode, the Canadian journalist brought up that he wanted newer fans of the sport to experience a McGregor fight. Helwani mentioned that it appears less likely that the former two-division champion will be fighting at UFC 303. He said:
"There is nothing like a [Conor] McGregor fight. There is nothing like that scene. June-July, International Fight Week, it's magic. It's the biggest gate in UFC history...So there ain't no part of me that is hoping that this falls through. But I'll tell you as of right now, it's pessimism, they're searching for, they're reaching out, they're putting out feelers, they're making offers, this is where we stand."
Check out the UFC 303: Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler promo below: