Rafael dos Anjos open to finally fighting Conor McGregor, but won’t ‘sit on the sidelines for 2 years’ like Michael Chandler

Rafael dos Anjos remains open to fighting Conor McGregor, but won't sacrifice his career by waiting indefinitely like Michael Chandler did, the lightweight veteran told MMA Fighting ahead of his UFC 332 bout against Alexander Hernandez this Saturday.

Dos Anjos and McGregor were originally scheduled to clash for dos Anjos' lightweight title at UFC 197 in 2016, but an injury forced dos Anjos to withdraw. McGregor instead fought Nate Diaz twice, while dos Anjos subsequently lost his title to Eddie Alvarez. A decade later, the matchup remains unfinished business. With McGregor potentially targeting an April comeback following his knee injury at UFC 329 against Max Holloway, the timing could align if dos Anjos defeats Hernandez.

"That would be awesome," dos Anjos said. "It's not about money, my life went on, I'm not going to do like Michael Chandler and sit on the sidelines for two years waiting for a fight that never happens." He emphasized that had he chosen to wait for McGregor over Eddie Alvarez years ago, the outcome might differ, but he prioritized defending his title and maintaining momentum. Dos Anjos added that if circumstances align, the fight could happen, though he remains pragmatic: "Who knows? God has a plan and whatever he decides."

McGregor responded positively to dos Anjos' comments on social media, replying "Thank you Rafael." It's been over six years since McGregor won a fight, with both recent appearances ending in injury. Dos Anjos sympathizes with McGregor's struggles but stressed that returning requires genuine desire and sacrifice. "He could come back, but he's got to want it," dos Anjos said. "If you're too comfortable with your life and with finances, you're not motivated, you're not going to make it."

Dos Anjos, preparing for his 50th professional bout and 37th UFC fight, also criticized modern fighters for demanding extended fight camps and avoiding genuine competition, contrasting their approach with his own willingness to accept fights on short notice and earn opportunities through genuine competition rather than strategic record-building.