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Rumors surrounding a potential Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler matchup are heating up, and Dustin Poirier has weighed in on the clash, insisting that the Irishman's striking will be too much for the wrestler.
'The Diamond' has almost recovered from a nasty staph infection that forced him to spend nights in the hospital. With the worst now behind him, he is looking forward to returning to action. After an all-time clash against 'Iron' last time out, the Louisiana native may be just one win away from a title shot.
While discussing the potential fight during a recent interview, Dustin Poirier claimed that Conor McGregor's timing and striking will be a problem for Michael Chandler. He would expect the former two-division champion to win:
"I would favor Conor. I think Chandler's very hittable, Conor's timing, you know. We'll see with the layoff, [that] too might be a big factor for Conor, but yeah, I would pick Conor still in this one... Conor's longer than him, Chandler slows down, [if] he does wrestle heavy to avoid the striking with Conor, he's going to slow down a little bit, and then he'll be more in front of Conor, and able to get touched. I would put money on Conor if the fight happens."
Poirier has shared the octagon with both elite lightweights. He believes that despite Chandler having the grappling advantage, he tends to slow down, therefore opening up a path to victory for his opponents.
McGregor has proved throughout his career that he's capable of hurting the best of the best on the feet and captured his two titles under the UFC banner with brilliant displays of timing.
Check out what Dustin Poirier had to say about the rumored lightweight bout in the video below.
Conor McGregor's absence from the octagon
Although there's much talk of his return, Conor McGregor's imminent comeback has been shut down due to him being outside the USADA testing pool. Reports suggest that it will take six months of tests before he can compete again.
Nothing is known about when he will fight again. He has, on multiple occasions, expressed an interest in stepping back into the cage. Chandler is a name that continues to be mentioned alongside him.
Both men have publicly stated their desire to fight one another. While it may take some time to get the two matched up, it will certainly be a barnburner if it does come to fruition.
