After losing a rematch to Charles Oliveira and facing doubts about his future, Michael Chandler is set to fight Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314, viewing it as an opportunity to prove himself and reignite his pursuit of a UFC title despite the risks involved.
When Michael Chandler agreed to a rematch against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 last November, he was sure he’d win and vie for the lightweight title in 2025. Instead, things didn’t go as planned. Oliveira dominated with five takedowns and nearly 15 minutes of control time. After waiting two years for a Conor McGregor fight that never happened, Chandler, now 38, saw this as his best shot at a title. But with the loss, doubts crept in about whether his championship dreams were over.
“I got into an SUV with my wife and just cried,” Chandler shared with MMA Fighting. The loss hit hard. “I felt like I squandered that opportunity and I said, ‘Babe, this could be the last one.’” A tough moment indeed, but essential for Chandler to confront before accepting that nothing is certain in this sport.
Despite his internal struggles, Chandler didn’t shy away from discussing his rematch shortcomings. He booked interviews just days after the fight—something many fighters would avoid. “It was the most disappointed I’ve ever been,” he admitted. Yet he faced it head-on, even recording a podcast shortly after.
Years ago, hiding seemed easier after losses; not anymore. Back then, losing three fights in a row left him embarrassed and unwilling to face the music. Now? It’s part of the journey. You win some, you lose some.
Chandler’s recent loss was particularly painful because he was so sure he’d avenge his past defeat and re-enter title contention. “I think I was just so dang sure,” he reflected. But with time comes perspective. He’s licked his wounds and reignited his fire.
Fast forward three months post-Oliveira fight: Chandler’s set to face Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314 in Miami on April 12. An unexpected matchup given Pimblett’s lack of top-tier experience, but Chandler didn’t hesitate.
On paper, he’s fighting down in rankings with less to gain than Pimblett—but that’s what makes it intriguing for him. “This is the nature of the business,” Chandler noted. Sometimes you have to fight outside the top 10 to keep things moving.
Chandler acknowledges the risk in fighting someone outside the top 10 but sees it as an opportunity to prove himself again. “Somebody was going to pay for the pain that I had in November,” he declared. Unfortunately for Pimblett, he’s next in line.
Chandler’s perspective on chasing a UFC title has evolved too. Time heals wounds, and laying waste to Pimblett could change everything. “You’re only as good as your last fight,” he mused—a sentiment echoed by Dustin Poirier‘s career trajectory.
Reflecting on his own path into the UFC spotlight, Chandler knows how unpredictable this sport can be. Circumstances change quickly; opportunities arise unexpectedly—like when Poirier turned down a title shot, paving the way for Chandler’s chance after Khabib retired.
And that’s just how this wild sport works—unpredictable yet thrilling at every turn.