MMA fans are in for a treat at the International Fight Week of 2024 as Conor McGregor makes his comeback after three years off against Michael Chandler. Many fan theories out there suggest the introduction of a new division and a new title on the line for the fight. Daniel Cormier has now substantiated the theories with his take on the matter.
In the recent episode of The Good Guy/Bad Guy show, Cormier spoke in-depth about the drama, rumors, and speculations surrounding the anticipated matchup between Chandler and McGregor. Per LowKickMMA, Chandler had earlier stated he would not be surprised if a 165lb title is on the line in the main event of UFC 303.
“Michael Chandler wants this fight, and he has made no secrets or bones about it. This is what he wants. I imagine now it is happening (at) 165 (lbs), I believe,” said Cormier.
“I believe that is what Michael Chandler is saying may happen right now because I believe that if they’re going to do a 165-pound division, it should have a name attached to the weight class that is so big that it draws people’s attention,” he added.
Daniel Cormier suggested Conor McGregor is the name. Cormier further stated the creation of 165 lbs would necessitate moving the welterweight limit from 170 lbs to 175 lbs, and the middleweight from 185lbs to 195lbs.
Nevertheless, Chael Sonnen, Cormier’s co-host of the show, vehemently destroyed the speculations surrounding the rumors.
Daniel Cormier’s co-host on the idea of 165lbs title introduction
Chael Sonnen is known for making outrageous takes on matters related to MMA but his take on the 165lb division creation looked more realistic than Daniel Cormier. For Sonnen, Michael Chandler’s insinuation of a 165 lbs title seems farfetched, particularly as Dana White announced the fight to be contested at welterweight (170 lbs).
There is no 165-pound belt coming. History of the UFC and the psychology of Dana White say, “I don’t give anybody a world title opportunity that’s coming off losses, let alone multiple,” Sonnen hilariously explained his reason.
“History of Dana White’s psychology says, ‘I don’t give anybody a world title opportunity even if they’re the number one contender if I have reason to believe they’re not going to come back and defend it,'” Sonnen added.
Nonetheless, Daniel Cormier made the counterargument the UFC has always been kind to fighters, who are easy to do business with. Cormier stated with the example of the title shot Alexander Gustafsson got even though he lost to Anthony Johnson in his last fight.
Nevertheless, McGregor versus Chandler is guaranteed fireworks as fight fans are hyped up after McGregor released footage of him kicking the heavy bag. Moreover, McGregor’s coach has even predicted a knockout victory for his student, against Chandler.
Do you think the UFC will create new divisions like Daniel Cormier has suggested? Leave your thoughts below!
