A recent addition to the lightweight division in the UFC, Michael Chandler will face Justin Gaethje at UFC 268 this November. And although he could not capture the vacant belt against Charles Oliveira at UFC 262, his teammate Gilbert Burns believes Chandler’s power will be a little too much for Gaethje to handle.
A former interim champion, Justin Gaethje is by far the most entertaining fighter in the lightweight division. Hence the nickname ‘The Highlight’. Prior to his loss to the Champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Gaethje put on a stunning performance against Tony Ferguson, stopping the fan-favorite late in the fifth round at UFC 249.
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On the other hand, Michael Chandler, a former three-time Bellator lightweight champion, is perhaps one of the most explosive fighters on the roster as of now. His knockout against the bigger and stronger Dan Hooker is a testament to his technical yet powerful fighting style. Perhaps that is why ‘Durinho‘ made the following statement in one of his latest interviews.
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“I think Chandler is going to be a lot. People might underestimate him because of the last fight, but I think Michael Chandler hits harder, has more cardio, has freaking crazy wrestling. If they go, both collide. Both guys night go forward in that fight and hit each other. I just see Chandler with more power and I see Chandler as a winner. I think yeah, I think it’s going to be a crazy one”
A fight that fans have been waiting for, Michael Chandler vs Justin Gaethje, will undoubtedly be one for the history books. Furthermore, a fight between these lightweights will also give us some clarity on the future of the division.
Can Michael Chandler become the UFC’s lightweight champion?
Ever since his arrival at the UFC, Michael Chandler has made his intention clear: He’s here to become a champion. Having suffered many ups and downs in his career, his most recent loss hasn’t deterred him from living up to his promises. This is why Chandler has opted to get right back into the mix with the number two ranked fighter in the division, Justin Gaethje.
Should Michael Chandler manage to get the win over Gaethje in November, he will find himself in the no.1 contender spot once again. When it comes to the skill set, Chandler has all the tools to become a dominant champion. His powerful striking, coupled with an amazing wrestling pedigree, makes him a tough night out for anyone in the top five.
In a division where the margin for error is zero, Chandler will hope to capture the belt in the coming year. Or else sit back as father time beckons to him.
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What do you think? Will we ever see Michael ‘Iron’ Chandler as the UFC lightweight champion? Let us know in the comments.
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