Conor McGregor is not ruling out a return to the lightweight division, but he has set his sights on a welterweight title shot if he emerges victorious against Michael Chandler. He expressed his interest in the winner of the Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman 3 fight at UFC 286, and stated that he would like a welterweight title shot. Although the weight class for McGregor vs. Chandler has not been confirmed, McGregor sees himself as a welterweight and has bulked up since his injury at UFC 264.
He has competed three times at welterweight, with a win against Donald Cerrone and a split with Nate Diaz before losing two lightweight fights against Dustin Poirier.
McGregor has previously targeted former welterweight champ Usman, and while UFC President Dana White didn’t dismiss the idea, the coaching spot and fight against Chandler has raised questions about the promotion’s plans. McGregor may be attending UFC 286, which takes place at The O2 in London, as he is due in London this week for business at his restaurant and bar, The Black Forge Inn.