Conor McGregor has issued a response after Michael Chandler claimed he'd finish the Irishman inside two rounds.
The American fan favourite even called himself 'Mystic Mike' – a clear jab at McGregor.
And, well, let's just say 'Mystic Mac' himself saw the funny side of things.
It was recently announced that McGregor and Chandler would be the new coaches for the upcoming series of The Ultimate Fighter.
Advert
McGregor's role on the popular television show would mark his return to the octagon in almost two years, with Chandler picked as his dance partner.
On paper, it's a fascinating match-up with fireworks expected.
But as if this bout didn't need any more drumming up, Chandler has only gone and trash-talked his opponent.
"He's going to feel my presence from the very beginning of the fight and then from there wherever the flight takes us," Chandler told ESPN.
Advert
"If I want to pick him up and put him down, I can pick him up and put him down and put a beating on him and get a submission that way.
"I believe I finish Conor in the second round. That's my 'Mystic Mike' take on this, later on this year whenever it is."
Upon seeing the prediction posted boy MMA Fighting on Twitter, McGregor issued a response of his own.
Short but definitely-not-sweet, the former dual division champion simply replied with a laughing face emoji.
Chandler, without doubt, has easily become one of the most exciting fighters on the UFC roster since jumping over from rival promotion Bellator.
Advert
in May of 2022, following his impressive 'Knockout of the Year' front-kick on Tony Ferguson, Chandler wasted no time on calling out the next man in his sights.
"If the UFC have a momentary lapse and give the title shot to someone else, I've got one dude on my mind," Chandler said in his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan.
"Conor McGregor, I am the most entertaining lightweight on the planet. I want you at your baddest and I want you at your best; you and me at 170lb."
He added: "When Conor comes back and he's healthy, I'll be there.
Advert
"He left his options open; he said it's a fight he wants down the line. He deserves and has earned the right to decide when he wants to fight, who he wants to fight and where he wants to fight.
"He's a combat sports icon and one of the biggest sports stars on the planet. In typical Conor fashion, he left his options open and he deserves to do that.
"I've never been a guy who has come at Conor, I don't need to disrespect someone or throw pot-shots at them to beat them inside the cage."
At the time, McGregor - who was still deep in the midst of rehabilitation from a devastating leg snap he suffered against Dustin Poirier - hit back at Chandler's demands.
Advert
"I’m not sure I wish to cut the weight," McGregor replied.
"I am really enjoying being built like a refrigerator. I feel I want to fight at this size just to watch it back lol. But I’d love to fight the Brazilian [Charles Oliveira], 100%!
"I love Brazil and I’m unbeaten against Brazil. All KO’s. I’ve some thinking to do."
Well, it seems Chandler's calls have now been answered with McGregor changing his tune.
TUF 31 promises to be on of the best yet.
Topics: MMA, UFC, Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler
Max Sherry