Michael Chandler Finally Gets an Opponent-Will Headline at UFC 257

Michael Chandler has always been regarded as one of the best lightweights in the world. ‘Iron’ is a former lightweight champion at Bellator who won and defended the belt multiple times. However, there were always doubts as to how good Michael Chandler was since he never fought in the UFC. 

‘Iron’ now has the opportunity to prove himself against the best the UFC has to offer. 

His first assignment since joining the UFC was a backup to the UFC 254 main event. Since both fighters made it to the fight, Chandler was forced to watch from the sidelines and await his first chance to impress a new audience. 

Read: “Michael Chandler has lost the mystique’- Dan Hooker wants Justin Gaethje as his next opponent 

Michael Chandler to make his long-awaited debut in the UFC

Dana White recently announced a triple header for UFC’s return to Fight Island that will be kicked off by Max Holloway taking on Calvin Kattar. It culminates with UFC 257 with Conor McGregor taking on Dustin Poirier. 

Recent reports suggest that ‘Iron’ has a date and opponent set for his UFC debut. The former Bellator champion will reportedly take on Dan ‘The Hangman’ Hooker at UFC 257 for his promotional debut. 

Hooker was on an impressive three-fight win streak before Dustin Poirier snapped it in June this year. ‘The Hangman’ will be eager to bounce back and to prove himself against a tough adversary. 

Chandler on the other hand last fought in August when he secured a KO win over Benson Henderson. He is currently riding a two-fight win streak with both victories coming via stoppage.

Chandler will be eager to secure his first win in the promotion and introduce himself to a new audience. 

What do you make of a fight between Dan Hooker and Michael Chandler? Who do you think will win? Let us know in the comments below!