Charles Oliveira Entertains Conor McGregor UFC Fight as Michael Chandler Bout Fizzles Out
Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler is losing its steam. 'The Ultimate Fighter' (TUF) season 31 viewership numbers are floundering, and even UFC president Dana White admits "It's hard" to motivate fighters like McGregor to fight.
RELATED: TUF 31: Another Conor McGregor Fighter Knocked out as Viewership Disappoints
One popular lightweight contender is keen to entertain a "Notorious" matchup, however. Charles Oliveira registered his interest via Twitter when he responded with a short, effective message to a rumored "insider report" that McGregor is no longer interested in fighting Chandler, and the UFC is pitching for new opponents:
Naturally, the "report" lacks verification and fails to offer any sources or evidence to support its bold claims. However, considering Oliveira's recent surge in popularity, this matchup could prove to be more lucrative and exciting both from a business standpoint and in terms of fan engagement.
McGregor's hypothetical victory in this 'fight' would position him for a title fight against Islam Makhachev, given Oliveira's current status as the #1 ranked lightweight.
Oliveira ranks as one of the highest PPV stars in the modern UFC era, "breaking records" in his PPV appearance alongside Makhachev according to White himself. It takes two to tango; Oliveira vs. McGregor could be one of the highest performing events in the sport's history.
Considering the floundering TUF performance and the doubt surrounding the Chandler fight, perhaps a change of matchup would renew interest and spark more interest in a McGregor comeback fight.
Stick with MMA Knockout for more daily coverage of the UFC and MMA