08/07/23 – 08/13/23
What happened this week in the UFC world? Conor McGregor’s highly anticipated UFC return is facing uncertainty, and there is the possibility of a rematch between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou in the PFL.
Stay tuned for all the latest UFC news, rumors, and recaps as the action unfolds from July 31st to August 6th, 2023.
Conor McGregor’s UFC Return Faces Uncertainty
Conor McGregor, the Irish sensation, prepared for his long-awaited return to the UFC octagon. His opponent, Michael Chandler, seemed like the perfect match-up. However, amidst the anticipation, a new contender emerged from the shadows, causing a ripple of doubt and intrigue.
Justin Gaethje, a rising fighter in the UFC lightweight division, secured a second-round knockout against Dustin Poirier, earning the coveted BMF belt and solidifying his position as the number two contender. Now, Gaethje sets his sights on McGregor.
McGregor confidently dismissed Gaethje’s threat despite his previous loss to Poirier due to a broken leg, claiming, “I KO him in one shot. Guarantee it,” in response to Gaethje’s victory, fueling speculation about a potential clash.
The long-anticipated match between McGregor and Chandler had been in discussion for some time, and both were expected to take on coaching roles in The Ultimate Fighter. Despite promotional efforts, the fight remained unofficial, leaving the door open for other opportunities to arise.
As Gaethje’s star continued to rise, he presented a formidable challenge to McGregor’s return. Chandler, a two-time Bellator lightweight champion, experienced setbacks in recent UFC fights, including a loss to Gaethje in 2021.
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On the other hand, Gaethje was on a roll, having secured back-to-back wins in the UFC, and his tenacity and skill were undeniable. With the former interim lightweight champion inching closer to another shot at the title, the clamor for a potential McGregor-Gaethje showdown only intensified.
Despite uncertainty about his next opponent, McGregor’s agent, Audie Attar, assured fans of his focused preparations. While Chandler made sense as a potential opponent, there were other contenders in the mix. However, it was evident that McGregor had his sights set on Chandler as the natural progression for his return.
As the global MMA community eagerly awaited an official announcement, the possibility of a McGregor vs. Gaethje clash added an extra layer of excitement. The world of MMA was intrigued to witness how events would unfold and discover the path the charismatic Irishman would choose for his highly anticipated return to the Octagon.
A Possible Epic Rematch: Derrick Lewis’s PFL Journey and the Francis Ngannou Connection
In the MMA world, Derek Lewis’s 33-second win over Marcos Rogerio de Lima at UFC 291 was thrilling. His announcement of entering free agency sparked speculation about his next move, with Kenny Florian envisioning a potential move to PFL and a rematch with Francis Ngannou.
Though Lewis expressed interest in a potential return to the UFC with a fresh contract, there’s no denying that “The Black Beast” is a fighter in high demand. With his penchant for awe-inspiring finishes and his warm and approachable personality, Lewis is a valuable asset for any organization lucky enough to have him on their roster.
Florian admired Lewis’s likable nature and knockout victory. With Lewis’s UFC contract ending, Florian saw potential in the PFL, offering exciting matchups and opportunities to showcase his skills.
The prospect of a rematch between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou adds excitement to Lewis’s next move. Their previous encounter at UFC 226 lacked excitement and resulted in a decision win for Lewis. However, in the PFL, Florian believes a knockout is more likely for a decisive outcome.
Francis Ngannou’s upcoming PFL debut after his boxing match with Tyson Fury generated speculation in the heavyweight division. His strategic negotiations set a new standard with a $2 million minimum purse for PFL bouts, raising the stakes for opponents.
Fans eagerly await a potential rematch between Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou, as both fighters have evolved since their first encounter. With the PFL now involved, the stage is set for a thrilling showcase of heavyweight supremacy.
In the ever-evolving MMA landscape, fighters have more career-enhancing options. The PFL has become an attractive destination for top talent, including fighters like Lewis. His journey promises excitement and thrilling matchups, leaving a lasting impact on the sport’s history.
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