What Does Michael Chandler Have To Say About UFC Signing?
Former Bellator Lightweight Champion Michael Chandler has spoken out on his UFC signing.
For years, Chandler had been considered a mainstay under the Bellator banner. Chandler had been a part of Bellator during the Bjorn Rebney and Scott Coker eras. Through it all, Chandler has expressed gratitude but he felt the timing is right for a move to the UFC.
Taking to his Instagram account, Chandler shared his first public comments since putting pen to paper with the UFC.
“Humbled by the opportunity. Galvanized by the road we took. Can’t wait to put on a show for you guys. To my fans, thank you for being with me on this journey. And if you just started with us…pull your hat down tight because we only know one speed! See you at the top!”
Chandler last competed on August 7 against Benson Henderson. This was a rematch from their November 2016 showdown. In the rematch, Chandler knocked Henderson out in the opening frame.
Chandler has garnered a pro MMA record of 21-5. He’s snagged nine of those wins via knockout or TKO and seven by way of submission. Along the way, he’s captured the Bellator Lightweight Championship three times.
Many have been clamoring for Chandler to be matched up against some of the UFC’s elite competition at 155 pounds. Potential matchups with the likes of Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, Tony Ferguson, and Dan Hooker have had fight fans salivating.
Chandler has already positioned himself to be on standby for the UFC 254 main event. UFC Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is set to meet interim titleholder Gaethje on October 24. If either fighter can’t make it on fight night, Chandler will step in as a replacement. He will not be booked on the card unless he is needed as a replacement.