Dustin Poirier, while not a big fan of Michael Chandler, acknowledges the intense battles they have in the octagon.
However, UFC 314 was different. Chandler was largely dominated and ultimately defeated by ground and pound in the third round by Paddy Pimblett, who delivered an impressive performance against the former title challenger. Known for his exciting fighting style, Chandler secured an early takedown but struggled to find his rhythm before Pimblett turned the fight in his favor.
After Pimblett landed a jumping knee strike, he gained top position and unleashed a series of powerful strikes, forcing the referee to stop the fight. This loss marks Chandler`s third consecutive defeat, bringing his UFC record to 2-5.
“Throughout this week, we discussed how his back was against the wall,” Poirier commented on Chandler during the UFC 314 post-fight show. “Anthony [Smith] disliked the ‘crossroads’ reference, but I believe it was fitting. We witnessed him lose again tonight, and not just lose, but get outmatched by a younger fighter. It was a real beating.”
Even in his UFC losses, Chandler usually showed resilience and never seemed to tire, even in five-round fights.
But this time, Poirier noted that Chandler appeared exhausted after the first round, which is when Pimblett began to take control.
At 38 years old, with a career marked by Fight of the Night performances, Poirier wonders if Chandler’s prime days are now behind him.
“In the first round, he had some success with a takedown and wrist control,” Poirier mentioned. “He won the first round but didn`t look like himself in the second.
“He didn’t seem steady on his feet and appeared to slow down, something we rarely see from him in the second round. He’s in great shape, looks fantastic, but time catches up to everyone.”
Poirier’s reasoning is compelling, especially considering Chandler’s age and the one-sided nature of his recent losses, including a decision loss to Charles Oliveira and the TKO defeat by Pimblett.
Immediately after the fight concluded, Chandler left the octagon without addressing his loss.
As for Pimblett, Poirier is impressed, admitting he initially underestimated the lightweight from Liverpool, thinking he was more hype than substance.
“I thought he was just a goofy guy with a funny haircut that people were supporting as a novelty,” Poirier said. “Like ‘oh, this is fun, let’s cheer on this goofy guy!’ But when you have the right combination of personality and winning fights, you become a huge star in the sport. That’s what he’s doing. He transitioned from prospect to contender tonight. He’s a lightweight contender now.”
“He’s in the top tier. Who is currently without a fight? Gaethje? Maybe Arman? Oliveira? All exciting and significant fights. You don’t step back now; you continue to aim upwards and pursue the title. I think you give him one of those top guys.”
Marcus Blakely