Chael Sonnen has outlined why Conor McGregor continues to be the UFC’s hottest determine heading into 2026, even after staying inactive for almost 5 years.
Whereas ‘The Infamous’ has expressed curiosity in combating on the UFC White Home Card and is doing all the pieces he can to return this yr on June 14, Sonnen thinks the Irishman will most probably retire.
Sonnen says that McGregor retired the day he pulled out of his UFC 303 struggle in opposition to Michael Chandler in 2024. The UFC Corridor of Famer holds the identical stance thus far.
In his view, McGregor is advertising himself to maintain the fighter’s picture alive, figuring out that if the picture dies, the particular person follows. Subsequently, regardless of ‘The Infamous’ placing out coaching clips and extra to make followers know the way excited he’s to return and face Chandler, Sonnen isn’t satisfied.
Nevertheless, the 48-year-old believes McGregor to be the primary fighter in 2026, regardless of not having thrown a punch in years.
The UFC Corridor of Famer says Conor possesses one thing extra valuable than a UFC belt, that’s, the “mandate of the plenty.”
“My bigger level will not be the ability or the suggestive energy that Conor wields, however Conor’s received the most important factor which you can have on this sport, which is the mandate of the plenty. Far more vital than having a belt. Far more vital on this area than having million-dollar paydays or major occasions, or back-end participation. You probably have the mandate of the plenty, as a byproduct, I imply, simply just by default, you should have major occasions, title alternatives, backend factors, and participations.”
Try Chael Sonnen’s feedback under (2:40):
Michael Chandler confirms Conor McGregor showdown
As per Michael Chandler, he and Conor McGregor will struggle on the UFC White Home card. ‘Iron’ had beforehand stated that ‘The Infamous’ has introduced in guys in his coaching camp to imitate Chandler’s fashion, and the struggle is a finished deal. Each have verbally confirmed the bout.
Most not too long ago, Chandler stated this on the CBS NYE broadcast:
“It does sound like I’ll be handing Conor McGregor ol’ long-established bu*t whooping on the South Garden of the White Home someday this summer season. That’s the plan.”
Try Michael Chandler’s feedback under:

















