Conor McGregor would have ‘nightmare’ facing me, claims Michael Chandler as he breaks down how he’d beat UFC rival

MICHAEL CHANDLER has claimed he is a ‘nightmare’ opponent for Conor McGregor.

The Irish star, 32, will come out of retirement to fight old rival Dustin Poirier on January 23.

Chandler, 34, will make his UFC debut against Dan Hooker on McGregor’s undercard in Abu Dhabi.

Ahead of UFC 257, Chandler has insisted he would love to fight the former two-weight world champ.

Speaking to ESPN, he said: “Of course I want that possible fight (with Conor McGregor).

“Do I think I match up extremely well against Conor? Absolutely.

“With my wrestling background, plus the power in my hands, plus my ability to mix up the striking with the takedowns, plus my ability to push the pace.

“I think I’m a nightmare for Conor. But I respect what Conor is doing. Conor is continuing to come into his own.”

Former Bellator lightweight champion Chandler joined the UFC as a free agent.

Chandler – who has a record of 21-5 – won both of his last fights via first-round knockouts.

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McGregor has been out of action since his win over Donald Cerrone in January 2020.

But he has promised to produce a ‘masterpiece’ when he makes his return to the Octagon.

The 32-year-old has even given up drinking his Proper 12 Whiskey ahead of his fight with Poirier.