"It's built in"- Daniel Cormier delivers compelling case for Islam Makhachev vs. Conor McGregor, claims feud-driven storyline sets up epic clash
Daniel Cormier recently presented his case for making an Islam Makhachev vs. Conor McGregor fight.
In the aftermath of Makhachev securing a first-round knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294, 'DC' stated that the UFC lightweight champion's reign could be a dominant one. Now, Cormier believes that the best way for the Dagestani grappling phenom to elevate himself to real superstardom is to fight someone as famous as McGregor.
The Irishman has not competed for over two years due to suffering a leg fracture against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. After coaching 'The Ultimate Fighter' season 31 opposite Michael Chandler earlier this year, McGregor was expected to make his return against 'Iron' before 2023 ends.
While Conor McGregor didn't enter the USADA testing pool in time to be able to compete this year, it was recently reported that the Irishman finally submitted his samples earlier this month. This means he'll be eligible to fight around April 2024.
In a recent episode of the DC & RC Show, Daniel Cormier opined that 'The Notorious' should make his comeback against Islam Makhachev instead of Michael Chandler:
"I think Islam should fight Conor McGregor next... It's built-in, it's built-in. It's the biggest money fight the UFC can make... You have Islam Makhachev, who looks to be a guy that's going to be a dominant champion. In order to have that dominant champion go to the next level of superstardom, you need a foil. A guy that can elevate him. A guy that can elevate him to the next level is Conor McGregor."
Catch Cormier's comments below (3:50):
Michael Chandler believes Conor McGregor may be trying to return against a "lesser opponent"
As mentioned, Conor McGregor is expected to face Michael Chandler in his highly anticipated comeback bout. Given that both men are widely known for their highly entertaining fighting styles and explosive striking, many fans are eagerly looking forward to this matchup.
While UFC CEO Dana White has confirmed that the Irishman will be fighting the former Bellator lightweight champion on his return, it seems 'Iron' is suspicious of McGregor's intentions. Chandler recently claimed that 'The Notorious' may be trying to wiggle out of their bout in order to fight an easier opponent instead.
In a recent tweet, 'Iron' offered an explanation as to why McGregor rarely engaged with him on social media despite being perpetually active:
"You ever realize how @TheNotoriousMMA stays silent on social about me? Tell-tale sign, he’s smart, he’d rather find a lesser opponent. He’s waiting for me to move on. It’s too late to be scared man. Can’t remain afraid kid."