UFC Commentator Shakes Up McGregor's Return Fight

Jon Anik suggests Nate Diaz or Mauricio Ruffy as better opponents for Conor McGregor's comeback bout

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a UFC fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, with the figures and action broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant colors.Anik's unexpected suggestions for McGregor's return fight have sparked debate and intrigue within the UFC community.Toledo Today

UFC commentator Jon Anik has thrown a curveball into the plans for Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the Octagon. While many fans are hyping up a McGregor vs. Michael Chandler showdown, Anik isn't sold on the matchup, calling it a bout that 'does nothing' for him. Instead, he's drumming up excitement for a clash with Nate Diaz or the unexpected wildcard, Mauricio Ruffy. Anik has also questioned McGregor's reliability for the upcoming White House card, despite Dana White's praise of the Irishman's dependability.

Why it matters

Anik's comments have sparked debates across the MMA community, as a McGregor vs. Diaz trilogy fight would undoubtedly electrify fans, while a matchup with the rising star Ruffy would be an intriguing wildcard. Additionally, Anik's doubts about McGregor's reliability for the White House card challenge the narrative around the former champion's commitment, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his comeback.

The details

Conor McGregor's last victory inside the Octagon was in January 2020 when he defeated Donald Cerrone in 40 seconds. Since then, his back-to-back losses to Dustin Poirier and a significant injury at UFC 264 have left many wondering if we'd ever see 'The Notorious' return to his former glory. Despite these setbacks, both McGregor and Chandler have been vocal about their confidence in finally squaring off this year. The fight was originally slated for UFC 303 in June 2024, but McGregor's toe injury forced a cancellation.

  • Conor McGregor's last victory was in January 2020.
  • The McGregor vs. Chandler fight was originally scheduled for UFC 303 in June 2024 but was canceled due to McGregor's toe injury.

The players

Conor McGregor

A former UFC featherweight and lightweight champion who is making a highly anticipated return to the Octagon.

Michael Chandler

A UFC lightweight contender who has been vocal about his desire to fight McGregor.

Jon Anik

A UFC commentator who has suggested alternative opponents for McGregor's comeback fight.

Nate Diaz

A longtime rival of McGregor, with whom a trilogy fight would undoubtedly electrify fans.

Mauricio Ruffy

A rising UFC star who has drawn comparisons to McGregor and is seen as a potential wildcard opponent.

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What they’re saying

“I would love to see Conor McGregor back in the Octagon, and while Chandler deserves a spot on the White House card, this matchup doesn't feel consequential for the lightweight division.”

— Jon Anik, UFC Commentator

“They'll probably fight at 170.”

— Jon Anik, UFC Commentator

“You can't be reliant upon him.”

— Jon Anik, UFC Commentator

What’s next

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The takeaway

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