Conor McGregor will be a keen observer of this weekend’s lightweight clash between Paddy Pimblett and Michael Chandler.
The former dual-weight UFC champion hasn’t competed inside the Octagon since July 2021, but is still ticking over during his time away from the cage.
Instagram – Conor McGregor/GETTYMcGregor is keeping an eye on Chandler vs Pimblett[/caption]
On Thursday, McGregor uploaded a video to social media of himself hammering the pads with his coach and captioned the post with a message for Chandler and Pimblett.
“I am interested in the Chandler/Pimblett fight this weekend,” he wrote.
McGregor was supposed to return to MMA last June against Chandler at UFC 303.
However, the Irishman pulled out of the fight after breaking his toe in sparring.
McGregor hasn’t been re-booked by the UFC since while Chandler went on to rematch Charles Oliveira last November, losing via unanimous decision.
The American is now set to face Pimblett in the co-feature attraction of UFC 314 on Saturday night in Miami.
Pimblett broke into the UFC lightweight rankings last July when he submitted King Green.
He is ranked No.12 overall, five places behind Chandler at No.7.
A win over whoever emerges victorious would secure McGregor a top 10 spot and serious leeway for a title shot against reigning champion Islam Makhachev.
Pimblett has spoken repeatedly about his desire to exchange leather with McGregor.
During a recent interview with SHAK MMA, Pimblett insisted he would love to make his first defence of the UFC lightweight title against McGregor at Anfield if he manages to top the division in years to come.
“My plan is to fight a top five opponent, then fight for the belt,” he said.
“Then, my first title defense could be Conor McGregor at Anfield.
“Then, that is perfect, because that’s where the money is and I’m filling Anfield out, me and Conor.”
That fight could come much sooner if the UFC pushes for McGregor vs Pimblett next.
McGregor has two fights left on his contract and is hoping to return to action this year.
