'I am naturally bigger': Chandler elaborates why fighting at 185 would not benefit Conor McGregor

Michael Chandler feels he will have an advantage over Conor McGregor at 185 pounds because of his natural size. McGregor announced on New Year's Day that he would make his long-awaited comeback to the octagon on June 29 during the UFC's International Fight Week programme. 'Notorious' selected Chandler as his opponent before delivering the most startling piece of information: the battle would be held at middleweight.

3 things you need to know

• Conor McGregor announced his return to UFC
• McGregor challenged Michael Chandler to a one-on-one bout
• McGregor hasn't stepped inside Octagon since 2021

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Michael Chandler feels he would carve more benefit at Middleweight 

While the UFC has not announced their probable fight, 'Iron' addressed the topic in a recent interview with TMZ Sports. McGregor will struggle, according to Chandler, because he will not be fighting someone who is inherently lighter than him.

"I think I am naturally bigger than him. If you remember he's a natural 145'er who started making his name by cherry-picking 135'ers. I've carried this mass for the last 15 years and fought at lightweight with it."

Conor McGregor started out as a Featherweight in UFC, and after clearing out the division, he climbed the weight ladder and later settled in the Lightweight division. However, the results haven't been ideal at 155lbs. Now, McGregor is planning to put on 30 more pounds and has challenged Michael Chandler for a Middleweight bout. If the fight materialises, McGregor would earn the unique tag of fighting in four divisions (Featherweight, Lightweight, Welterweight, and Middleweight) in UFC but will he be able to move like the old Conor, is what the fight fans speculate.

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Chandler thinks extra weight will affect McGregor's movement

Chandler also has the same doubt and feels he would be able to benefit more at 185lbs.

"This was a question before the 185, The Ultimate Fighter, 'You'll do as you're told' thing. Conor has gained weight, gotten bigger. We haven't seen how he's going to fair with that extra muscle mass and extra size. I don't think he'll be able to move like the Conor of old. He won't be able to have the same reaction time, footwork or be as light on his feet at 170 or 185 pounds. I think it benefits me so whenever they wanna do it, I'm ready."