Dana White Rules Out McGregor vs. Chandler at UFC White House Event

UFC President Dana White has definitively stated that Conor McGregor will not face Michael Chandler at the upcoming UFC White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. This event is set to coincide with President Donald Trump's birthday and will take place on the South Lawn of the White House, with an expected attendance of 5,000 dignitaries and another 85,000 fans outside.

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The anticipated matchup between McGregor and Chandler has been a topic of discussion since they served as opposing coaches on "The Ultimate Fighter" in 2023. Initially, the two were slated to fight at UFC 303 in June 2024, but McGregor withdrew due to a broken toe. Since then, Chandler has expressed optimism about the fight happening, stating that "conversations are being had" and that he is eager to compete at the White House event.

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In a recent interview with Complex, White dismissed the possibility of rebooking the fight, stating, "No, that was a couple of years ago." He emphasized that while discussions about McGregor's potential return are ongoing, the matchup with Chandler is no longer on the table. White added, "We'll see if Conor's going to come back or not. We've been talking about it for a while. I don't know, though."

Dana White: Michael Chandler won't be Conor McGregor's UFC return fight

Chandler has been vocal about his desire to fight McGregor, insisting that the odds of the fight happening are higher than ever. He expressed disappointment at White's comments, highlighting the history and rivalry between the two fighters. Fans have also reacted with surprise and frustration, with some questioning White's commitment to making high-profile fights that could draw significant viewership.

Dana White Shuts Down Conor McGregor’s White House Fight Plans

Conor McGregor, who has not fought since July 2021, is eager to return to the Octagon. He has rejoined the UFC's drug testing pool, a necessary step for his comeback. Despite his absence from competition, McGregor remains one of the sport's biggest draws, and there is speculation about potential opponents if he does not face Chandler. Options being discussed include a trilogy fight with Nate Diaz, which could also attract significant attention.

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While White has ruled out Chandler as an opponent, Chandler continues to express hope for the matchup. The uncertainty surrounding McGregor's return and the lack of confirmed fights for the White House event leave fans and analysts speculating about the UFC's plans. As of now, no official fights have been announced for the event, and White has indicated that further announcements will come after UFC 324 on January 24, 2026.

Dana White Shuts Down Conor McGregor’s White House Fight PlansDana White: Michael Chandler won't be Conor McGregor's UFC return fight‘We’ve been talking about it’ – Dana White shocks fans with Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler at UFC White House updateCBS SportsESPN

• "No, that was a couple of years ago." — Dana White, UFC President

Dana White Says He’s Not Interested in McGregor vs Chandler at the White House Anymore

• "Conor wants to fight me at the White House, I want to fight him at the White House." — Michael Chandler, UFC Fighter

Dana White Shuts Down Conor McGregor’s White House Fight Plans‘We’ve been talking about it’ – Dana White shocks fans with Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler at UFC White House updateESPNCBS SportsSorry, Mac! Dana White won’t let Conor McGregor fight Michael Chandler at UFC White HouseSports Illustrated

• "We'll see if Conor's going to come back or not." — Dana White, UFC President

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As the UFC White House event approaches, the future of both McGregor and Chandler remains uncertain, with fans eagerly awaiting further developments.

‘We’ve been talking about it’ – Dana White shocks fans with Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler at UFC White House update