TUF 31: UFC News: The debut episode of The Ultimate Fighter series was a thrilling spectacle that captivated viewers, featuring moments of high energy, anticipation, and even a knockout that ended the fight in just eight seconds. Following the episode’s airing, Michael Chandler made an appearance on ESPN MMA, where he was questioned about his initial meeting with his coaching rival, Conor McGregor. Chandler candidly expressed that the encounter was somewhat uncomfortable and awkward, sharing his genuine views of the interaction. Follow UFC News Updates with Insidesport.IN
TUF 31: Michael Chandler Opens Up About His “Awkward” Encounter With Conor McGregor
Also Read | TUF 31 Team McGregor vs Team Chandler – First Episode Review
TUF 31: Michael Chandler Reveals What Really Happened During His Encounter With Conor McGregor
During a recent ESPN MMA segment, Din Thomas and Michael Chandler discussed and provided their analysis of the first episode of The Ultimate Fighter season 31. Thomas played the complete clip of Chandler’s initial interaction with Conor McGregor, which he described as “awkward”. Thomas also noted that McGregor managed to keep Chandler on his toes with his trademark bravado and trash talk, albeit in a more subdued manner. Check out the bonus interaction clip between McGregor and Chandler, which begins at the 3:40 mark, in the video below.
To which Chandler replied, “Conor and I have met because we shared a press conference, we shared a card when he fought Poirier and I fought Dan Hooker.” After which he added how he met McGregor at the gym, “So that was when they said go wait in the gym. We’ll let you know when we’re ready. And I was waiting and stood for about 10 mins and then Conor came in. And then they left us there for 30 mins. Like what do you do? You just sit there and start talking thrash and insulting each other.”
He added, “You guys said awkward. I don’t think Conor wanted to come in and spit venom like he normally does. And not because he is afraid of me, it’s me sitting and I’m a tough guy and I made Conor outside of his realm. I think Conor has respect for me. I have respect for him. What’s he gonna say man and what will I say to him. Aside from that, I’m gonna beat him. I watch all of his tapes and he watched my tapes.”
According to Chandler, he and McGregor have mutual respect for each other, which is why their exchange was kept short and subtle, in order to maintain a competitive intensity and show their fighting spirit.
Chandler also noted that McGregor did not behave in his usual salty manner, which contributed to the interaction feeling like a normal conversation between two guys meeting for the first time. Therefore, Chandler didn’t find the exchange awkward, but rather a respectful and competitive interaction.
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