Conor McGregor may not be back yet, but Henry Cejudo says all he needs is one win to move to the top of the 155-pound title list. The Irish superstar has been busy lately promoting his role in Roadhouse. However, in a recent interview with ESPN he caused a stir in the MMA community as he declared:“The Mack” and “The Notorious” will be returning to the UFC Octagon this summer. ”
Although the UFC and CEO Dana White have yet to release any official statement or confirmation about his claims, Henry Cejudo believes McGregor holds his own in the current UFC landscape. As such, 'Triple C' has posted on his YouTube channel how 'The Notorious' can leapfrog all contenders for his UFC lightweight title with just his one win. I explained it in detail.
Henry Cejudo explains why rankings don't matter to Conor McGregor
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Conor McGregor's return fight against Michael Chandler was originally scheduled to take place after TUF 31 last year, but has since been postponed multiple times. The Irish superstar previously indicated his desire to return on June 29, but the UFC did not issue a statement confirming his claims.
Both fighters also had extended absences, with McGregor's last fight taking place at UFC 264 in 2021 and Chandler's last fight taking place at UFC 281 in 2022.
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However, according to Henry Cejudo, “Connor had the ability to create a whole drama, which is why he carried 155 pounds.” It's all about storytelling. I think Conor McGregor did a really good job. That being said, Conor McGregor skips everyone with his win over Michael Chandler. Including the winner of Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan and Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway. ”
His comments highlight the fact that the UFC's lightweight division is currently packed with challengers hoping to face champion Islam Makhachev. While Cejudo didn't mention Dustin Poirier during this segment, 'The Diamond' was also vocal about giving the belt another shot after his recent impressive victory at UFC 299.
“Triple C” further stated: “…In this particular time, in this particular era that we live in, it has nothing to do with admiration. Do you know what that has to do with that money, ladies and gentlemen? There's a connection, and that's one of the things Conor McGregor brings to the table.”
In conclusion, McGregor's star power and ability to draw a crowd could propel him higher than other contenders in the division, but as Cejudo pointed out, there is potential for other contenders for the title. It can also cause confusion.
However, the former UFC lightweight also recently claimed that McGregor vs. Chandler may have lost some of its luster due to the long delay.
McGregor vs. Chandler criticized as not 'special'
The highly anticipated fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler remains undecided for now, with fans struggling to maintain their excitement for the fight. Despite McGregor's recent claims that he will return to the cage this summer, there has been no indication from the UFC or Dana White about a date or venue for his return.
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That's why the former Strikeforce champion and co-host of the podcast “Weighing In.” Josh Thompson He confessed to having doubts about the potential significance of the battle. he said, “When Nate Diaz did it (beat McGregor), it was special… But if Chandler did it (beat McGregor), I don't think we'd even be impressed. I beat a guy who's been watching movies, drinking, and partying for three years.”
Thomson acknowledged the entertainment value of the fight, but cautioned against exaggerating its importance, highlighting McGregor's poor training and Chandler's long absence. As fans wait for official confirmation from the UFC, expectations for a return fight between McGregor and Chandler persist, allaying questions about its relevance in the broader context of the division.
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Do you think Conor McGregor can win the title if he beats Michael Chandler? Share your thoughts in the comments below!