Chael Sonnen on Conor McGregor fighting the winner of Gaethje vs. Oliveira: “It’s not as far out of an idea as perhaps it appeared”

By Harry Kettle - February 18, 2022

Chael Sonnen has given his thoughts on Conor McGregor fighting the winner of Justin Gaethje vs Charles Oliveira.

Chael Sonnen, Conor McGregor, UFC

While the next UFC lightweight title fight will be Charles Oliveira defending the strap against Justin Gaethje, many have already turned their attention to who the winner will face after their triumph. Islam Makhachev is hoping to secure a shot at the belt if he can beat Bobby Green next weekend but beyond that, the looming presence of Conor McGregor can’t be overlooked.

He may have lost twice to Dustin Poirier in his most recent outings, but the sheer star power that “The Notorious” brings to the table means it’s entirely possible he could be put in there with whoever the champion may be later this year.

Chael Sonnen, after noting that Gaethje and Oliveira are both interested in fighting McGregor, whereas Dustin Poirier and Nate Diaz aren’t as invested in the idea, decided to weigh in on the proposal during a recent video on his channel.

“If we have Poirier/Diaz to look forward to, and I’m leaning in the direction that we do, you’ve just removed two meaningful players from the board. Then you do start to get a good look at who’s left and who makes the most sense. All of a sudden, Conor McGregor coming right into a world title fight against either Gaethje or Oliveira, it’s not as far out of an idea as perhaps it appeared the first time we heard it three months ago.”

Right now, with McGregor, it’s probably a good idea to expect the unexpected.

Do you think we will see Conor McGregor challenge the winner of Charles Oliveira vs Justin Gaethje for the UFC lightweight title in his first fight back in the Octagon? Let us know your thoughts down in the comments, BJPENN Nation!


Topics:

Chael Sonnen Charles Oliveira Conor McGregor Justin Gaethje UFC