Michael Chandler believes he can dethrone lightweight world champion Islam Makhachev with his balls-to-the-wall style.
The former Bellator MMA titleholder has been preparing for his legendary fight against Irish megastar Conor McGregor for over a year. Unfortunately, that battle is no closer to happening today than it was in early 2023.
Perhaps Chandler seems a little irritated by his long layoff and has set his sights on Makhachev, but that comes after the champion suggested to the 'Iron' to stop sitting around waiting for McGregor's return. Met.
“Thank you @MAKHCHEVMMA for the unsolicited advice – I sleep better at night… I have a plan and you are part of it, champ.” Chandler wrote about X, responded to Makhachev's proposal. ”
After chanting “Destroyer of Dagestani” on social media, fans were quick to comment, suggesting Chandler made a big mistake by targeting the “king” of the lightweight division.
Chandler confidently replied, “Style creates a fight…I'm going to win this one.”
Islam Makhachev has chosen his next opponent, and it's not Michael Chandler
Michael Chandler could face a fight with Makhachev while many of the top contenders in the lightweight division, namely Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira, are booked elsewhere.
Makhachev has made it clear that he wants to fight this summer, no matter who the opponent is. The frontrunner for the championship appears to be Dustin Poirier, who is set for a highlight-reel finish with Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299. “The Diamond” has just two wins and two losses in his last four fights, but could win a third title. Given the busy situation in the department, this is an opportunity.
Islam Makhachev has defended his lightweight title twice since winning the belt with a submission victory over Charles Oliveira at UFC 280. However, both of his defenses were against former featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovksi.
