SUMMARY
- According to recent social media activity, Conor McGregor could end up facing Michael Chandler at UFC 300 after all.
- Israel Adesanya is expected to make a surprise return against Dricus du Plessis at UFC 300
UFC 300 is set to be one of the biggest PPV events in the promotion history. In its 30-year run, no event has had as much expectation on its shoulders as this one. As such, fans can’t help but theorize what will be this all-important card’s main event.
For the most part, we have seen a lot of announcements for the card already. Whilst some fights have been well-received by the fans, there are few that they have felt let down by. Notably, UFC President Dana White’s announcement of Xhang Weili vs. Yan Xiaonan was heavily criticized. Considering the importance of a card as big as UFC 300, many felt that the strawweight title bout was a ‘waste of space’.
Here’s how #UFC300 is shaping up so far 🔥 pic.twitter.com/oaqjxR8pvk
— UFC (@ufc) January 26, 2024
At the same time, announcements like Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan, and others have won back the fans in a way. However, with the spots on the card almost filled out, there is a growing anticipation regarding the main and the co-main event of the card. As such, let’s take a look at all the rumors that have been doing the rounds on social media.
1. Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler at UFC 300?
Naturally, the talk of a Conor McGregor return is one that a lot of fans are very keen on. However, owing to a rather bizarre New Year’s Eve announcement and Dana White subsequently dismissing it, there has been a lot of confusion regarding the fight. Additionally, with the Irishman’s Hollywood debut ‘Road House’ releasing in March, his availability has a big question mark next to it.
Let’s GOOOO! #UFC300 pic.twitter.com/0MUgfiLQ9E
— Dovy🔌 (@DovySimuMMA) January 27, 2024
However, owing to Conor and Michael Chandler’s recent social media activity, it appears that the fight could be on. As previously stated by Chael Sonnen, the fight will need to have serious implications for it to be a headliner. As it turns out, that problem may have been solved if rumor #5 turns out to be true.
2. Brock Lesnar vs. Tom Aspinall
Previously, there was also a widespread rumor suggesting the return of Brock Lesnar. As one of the selected few fighters to be a part of UFC 100 and UFC 200, Lesnar’s return to the sport would make for a monumental occasion. However, considering the current state of the division, it makes for a less likely possibility.
Whilst Tom Aspinall is itching for a fight, ‘The Beast Incarnate’ will most definitely not be his opponent. Now 46 years old and in the twilight of his career, there are more pressing matters at hand for Lesnar. Owing to the recent Vince McMahon controversy, Brock finds himself as one of the implicated parties. Thus, as Dana White said, fans can firmly rule this one out.
3. Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill
Now for a much more probable matchup, Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill. Possibly the next expected matchup at the top of the division, a former champ vs. current champ fight makes the most sense. Moreover, despite Magomed Ankalaev’s calls for a title shot, it would seem that he will need to wait his turn. Although ‘Poatan’ is likely up and ready to fight either contender, Hill’s recovery from injury is a key factor.
According to sources, UFC 301 will be taking place in Brazil. Thus, the promotion, to follow up their biggest card ever, could be tempted to save Pereira for the occasion. Additionally, it would also allow Hill to properly recuperate, ensuring a level playing field for such an important contest.
4. Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya
Lastly, possibly the most likeliest of all, we have the newly crowned middleweight champion, Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya. Safe to say, out of all the fights on the list, this one has the most concrete backstory behind it. Moreover, with Dricus’ call out to Adesanya after UFC 297, it seems that the ball has started rolling on this one.
To make matters interesting, we have seen Dana White try to be as tight-lipped on the matter as possible. In the meantime, we have also witnessed Adesanya seemingly back in training after a considerable layoff. All things considered, the matchup would be the most likely and one that would satisfy the fans as well.
5. Two new UFC weight classes at UFC 300
In what has been a more recent rumor, sources on social media have suggested that the UFC is planning a mind-boggling announcement. As suggested, the UFC will likely do away with the 170-pound welterweight division, introducing 165-pound and 175-pound divisions instead. Although extremely speculative, the rumors have also suggested that McGregor-Chandler will be for the newly made 165-pound division.
BREAKING: According to sources, UFC 300 will feature a major announcement from Dana White about changes to the men’s weight divisions. New weight classes at 165 and 175 pounds will be introduced, and the 170-pound division will be discontinued. The main event will be McGregor vs.… pic.twitter.com/GzVrfZJHRR
— The Punch Report 👊 (@ThePunchReport_) January 27, 2024
In the past, numerous fighters have urged the UFC to make a 165-pound division, only to be rejected. Now, in order to raise the ceiling, the promotion could be prompted into making this move. However, it must be stated, that there are no reliable sources behind this information. As such, although fans have expressed their excitement for it, it is more than likely another elaborate hoax that has gone viral.