Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the UFC may finally happen in 2023, with rumors circulating about a potential fight against Michael Chandler. Chandler himself has confirmed that he has been in contact with the UFC regarding a possible December showdown.

In an interview with Marc Raimondi of ESPN.com, Chandler revealed, "I talked to Hunter Campbell less than 48 hours ago. It's a constant moving target. I do think December isn't out of the question. By the end of the year isn't out of the question." This statement has sparked excitement among fans who have been eagerly awaiting McGregor's return to the octagon.

Notably, McGregor has dropped hints about a December comeback, coinciding with UFC 296, which is set to take place on December 16. However, the card currently lacks a main event for its highly anticipated pay-per-view slot. If McGregor and Chandler were to reach an agreement, it could potentially solidify this event as a must-watch for fight fans worldwide.

Nevertheless, McGregor faces a significant hurdle in resolving his status with USADA, the UFC's anti-doping partner. According to current regulations, a fighter who voluntarily leaves the testing pool must re-enter it and remain for a minimum of six months before being eligible to compete. Unfortunately, the specifics of McGregor's situation with USADA remain unclear, which could potentially jeopardize his ability to fight in December.

If McGregor fails to meet the compliance requirements, the much-anticipated fight between him and Chandler may be pushed back until 2024. This scenario suggests that fight enthusiasts may have to wait until UFC 300, scheduled for next spring, to witness the long-awaited clash between these two formidable fighters.

As fans eagerly await McGregor's return, the UFC and its fans hope for a fast resolution to his status with USADA. The prospect of a McGregor-Chandler matchup has generated immense interest and excitement, with both athletes possessing exceptional skills and a loyal following. The potential showdown could prove to be a thrilling spectacle and a major draw for the promotion.