Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler Off UFC 303 Card Due to Injury

Conor McGregor Injury
Photo credits: Men’s Health

The much-anticipated fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler at UFC 303 has been canceled because McGregor is injured. This is the first time McGregor has ever had to pull out of a fight due to an injury.

With McGregor out, the main event for UFC 303 will now be a light heavyweight title fight between Alex Pereira and Jiří Procházka. Pereira won their last fight by knockout and will defend his title again against Procházka.

The co-main event has also changed. Brian Ortega will now fight Diego Lopes. Originally, Jamahal Hill was supposed to fight Carlos Ulberg, but Hill got injured. So, Anthony Smith will now fight Ulberg instead.

McGregor hasn’t fought since he lost to Dustin Poirier in July 2021, where he broke his leg. His fight with Chandler was supposed to be a big comeback. McGregor, famous for his confidence and knockout power, was looking to bounce back from recent losses. Chandler, a former Bellator champion, has been waiting for this fight since he last fought in November 2022.

Earlier this month, a press conference in Dublin for McGregor and Chandler was suddenly canceled, leading to rumors about the fight’s status. McGregor had promised that his return would be spectacular, making this cancellation disappointing for his fans.

Impact on UFC 303

The changes are significant, but UFC 303 is still expected to be a big event. The new main event with Pereira vs. Procházka is exciting, as Procházka seeks revenge and Pereira aims to prove he’s the best.

Ortega, who has fought for the featherweight title twice before, will face Lopes, an up-and-coming fighter. This fight adds more excitement to the event.

There is hope that McGregor and Chandler will reschedule their fight for later this year, maybe in August or September, depending on McGregor’s recovery. Both fighters still want to face each other, keeping fans eager for the matchup.

Even with the changes, UFC 303 promises to deliver great fights. The new main event and co-main event ensure that fans will see top-quality mixed martial arts action. The UFC continues to adapt and provide exciting events, despite unexpected setbacks.