Michael Chandler has found himself in a tough predicament after Conor McGregor‘s injury blew his chances at a ‘red panty night’. However, days after UFC 303, ‘Iron’ revealed via his social media handles that he’s been offered to fight Islam Makhachev for the 155-pound strap. While many people seem skeptical about it, a certain UFC Hall of Famer has a different take on this situation. He believes that Chandler’s claim could have a hint of truth.

Until and unless Conor McGregor is fully healed and ready to come back, Dana White refuses to comment on the status of his return. Hence, the insider claimed there isn’t much for Michael Chandler except to fight for the title. But why? Well, Islam Makhachev may not have any choice.

Michael Chandler is the only possible option for Islam Makhachev

After Michael Chandler dropped his claim about getting offered a title shot, it was normal for most people to object to it because his recent record doesn’t substantiate his claims for a title shot. He and Conor McGregor have similar records, so it was understandable when he was chosen to compete against the first-ever UFC simultaneous dual-weight champion. However, Chael Sonnen claimed Chandler could very well be the only option for Islam Makhachev, who wants to fight once more this year.

Chael Sonnen stated on his YouTube channel, “A number of people resisting it. Islam himself [is] resisting it. But, I like the idea. I like it from a few perspectives, which is – if not Michael Chandler, then who?” Now, if you’re wondering why he’s the only option for the reigning champion, well, that’s because some of the top contenders like Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway have their work cut out. While the former lost, the latter is looking to fight for the featherweight belt. Additionally, Arman Tsarukyan has also been suspended for hitting a fan at UFC 300.

Hence, the only logical explanation here is that Chandler could be in line for a title shot. “Given the fact that Gaethje lost… Max Holloway is in fact the number one contender but chose to cash that golden ticket in down a weight class… Tsarukyan is suspended… Gamrot’s already competed… Charles Oliveira doesn’t want to do the fight. If we start to look at it, you go, yeah, it is for sure, it’s Chandler,” Chael Sonnen added.

However, if the title shot against Islam Makhachev doesn’t work out, what will be the plan for Michael Chandler? Well, Chael Sonnen previously mentioned another belt he could go for, which is the BMF title.

Sonnen believes ‘Iron’ can also compete for the BMF title

Michael Chandler’s current situation has made many people start discussing his next move. The discussion also took place in a recent episode of the ‘Good Guy/Bad Guy’ show, where hosts Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen weighed in on it. They are extremely sure that Chandler’s fight against Conor McGregor has to go down in the coming months. But if those plans blow up, ‘Iron’ can always turn his attention to the BMF title and fight Max Holloway.

“I believe Conor is gonna be opposite Michael Chandler; I’m confident telling you that. However, if he’s not, Michael Chandler vs. Max Holloway for the BMF [belt] is the fight to book,” said Chael Sonnen. Now, there is this online back-and-forth going on between Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria, hinting at a potential featherweight title fight between them. Hence, we cannot be too sure about Michael Chandler gunning for the BMF title.

What do you make of Chael Sonnen’s assessment of Michael Chandler’s situation? Drop your comments below.