The long-awaited showdown between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler is finally on the horizon, slated for the UFC's White House event in June 2026. However, not everyone in the MMA community is thrilled about this matchup. Prominent UFC commentator Jon Anik has voiced his disapproval, suggesting a far more compelling alternative for the Irish superstar's return.
Anik's Stark Criticism: "A Bout Without Consequence"
During a recent appearance on The Jaxxon Podcast, Jon Anik did not hold back his feelings about the McGregor-Chandler fight. He explicitly stated, "That fight does nothing for me. That matchup to me, is not a bout of consequence in the lightweight division." Anik pointed out that the fight, likely to be contested at welterweight (170 lbs), lacks the deep-seated narrative that has defined McGregor's most iconic bouts.
Instead, Anik pitched a blockbuster idea for McGregor's comeback fight. "I just would rather see Conor fight Nate Diaz," he declared. This call taps into one of the UFC's most storied and personal rivalries, which many believe holds greater significance and fan interest than the bout with Chandler.
Why Diaz Over Chandler? The Weight of History
Jon Anik's preference is rooted in UFC history. Conor McGregor's rivalries with fighters like Dustin Poirier, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Nate Diaz are legendary, having played a pivotal role in elevating the sport's global profile. The saga with Diaz, in particular, is ripe for a conclusion.
Their first encounter at UFC 196 in March 2016 resulted in a stunning upset, with Diaz submitting McGregor. The immediate rematch at UFC 202 in August 2016 saw McGregor edge out a majority decision victory. This left the score tied at 1-1, fueling years of demand for a definitive trilogy fight.
The anticipation for McGregor's return is already sky-high, given his absence since 2021, when he suffered a broken foot against Dustin Poirier. Pairing him with Diaz, rather than Chandler, would arguably create a monumental sporting event.
The Road Ahead: Will The UFC Listen?
While the UFC has announced the McGregor vs Chandler fight for its 2026 White House card, Jon Anik's comments highlight a segment of fan and expert sentiment. The fight with Chandler was originally announced for 2024 but faced repeated delays, adding to the current anticipation.
However, a significant hurdle stands in the way of the Diaz trilogy: Nate Diaz is currently not under contract with the UFC. This makes the blockbuster matchup seem unlikely, though not impossible if both parties and the promotion can come to terms.
For now, the official plan remains the clash with Michael Chandler. But as Anik's critique underscores, for many, a third chapter with Nate Diaz would be the more consequential and epic story for Conor McGregor's long-awaited return to the Octagon.
