Michael Chandler experienced his most significant defeat since joining the UFC, succumbing to Paddy Pimblett in the third round at UFC 314 this past Saturday night. Pimblett secured the victory with a series of strikes on the ground.
In contrast to his usual performances in the octagon, Chandler didn`t engage in a prolonged battle and never threatened to finish Pimblett. The 38-year-old veteran`s pace noticeably declined after the first round, allowing Pimblett to increase his offensive pressure and ultimately end the fight decisively.
This loss marks Chandler`s fifth in seven UFC fights and his third consecutive defeat. UFC legend Matt Brown has voiced concerns about Chandler`s current form, suggesting that his peak performance years may be behind him, while also acknowledging Pimblett`s strong showing.
Brown commented on The Fighter vs. The Writer, raising questions about Chandler`s overall standing and Pimblett`s potential. He noted Chandler`s battles against top fighters and his prior successes in Bellator, yet pondered if Chandler was ever truly suited for the UFC. Brown also speculated whether Chandler might have been distracted by the “warrior” image, or if Pimblett`s performance simply indicated his high skill level. While impressed by Pimblett`s recent fight, Brown remains uncertain about his championship caliber.
Brown suggests that it’s possible Chandler is past his prime or was never a true UFC-level fighter, and simultaneously believes Pimblett has proven himself as a top 10 contender.
There`s a valid argument that Chandler`s prime was during his Bellator career, with his UFC arrival coming somewhat late.
Despite delivering memorable and exciting fights since joining the UFC, Chandler hasn`t replicated his Bellator championship success. Brown acknowledges the elevated competition in the UFC compared to what Chandler previously faced, which may have been a significant factor.
Brown reiterated his question about Chandler`s best years being in Bellator, emphasizing that he respects Chandler`s abilities. He believes Chandler might have joined the UFC past his prime or become overly focused on creating exciting fights rather than strategic wins.
He compared Chandler to what he initially expected from Justin Gaethje – a fighter prioritizing exciting battles. While Gaethje evolved differently, Brown sees Chandler potentially fitting this mold.
Chandler`s future career path is now uncertain.
Before UFC 314, Brown had suggested Chandler consider retirement if he lost to Pimblett, as a path back to title contention would be extremely challenging.
Chandler has consistently stated his ambition to become UFC champion, emphasizing a “good time, not a long time” approach. With three consecutive losses, a UFC title shot may now be out of reach before his career concludes.
Brown speculates this could be the end for Chandler, unless a fight with Conor McGregor materializes.
Brown pointed out Chandler’s “belt or nothing” stance and suggests that if he remains true to this, retirement might be imminent. However, Brown also sees value in Chandler continuing to fight, suggesting matchups that promise exciting contests and highlighting Chandler`s name value for co-main or main event slots on Fight Nights.
Brown believes pay-per-view main events are unlikely for Chandler now, except potentially against a returning Conor McGregor. He even joked about a bare-knuckle fight with McGregor, acknowledging Chandler`s current career crossroads and numerous options due to his established name.
Brown reluctantly acknowledges Chandler`s career juncture and questions if his last fight has already occurred.
Brown expressed regret in questioning Chandler’s future given his warrior spirit, but emphasizes the reality of Chandler`s current UFC record, excluding the Tony Ferguson win. He concludes by questioning Chandler`s next steps.
Marcus Blakely