As the long-awaited UFC 309 co-main event approaches, all eyes are on former Bellator champion Michael Chandler as he looks to avenge his previous loss to Brazilian icon Charles Oliveira. The stakes have never been higher, with the winner positioning themselves for a potential lightweight title shot against the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev.
Chandler, the veteran powerhouse from High Ridge, Missouri, is determined to make the most of this opportunity. In a recent interview, the 38-year-old fighter expressed his determination, saying, “I’ve already mapped it out.” Charles Oliveira, November 16th. I defeated him, rising to the top of the rankings, and now I’m sitting cageside, observing Islam and Arman in the first few months of 2025.
Chandler might become the oldest UFC lightweight champion in history if his ambitious plan succeeds, breaking Sean Sherk’s record, who won the title at the age of 33.
The first encounter between Chandler and Oliveira at UFC 262 was a thrilling affair, with Chandler nearly capturing the vacant lightweight crown in the opening round. However, it was Oliveira who ultimately emerged victorious, finishing “Iron Mike” with strikes in the second round.
Chandler is now confident that he has made the necessary adjustments to overcome his Brazilian opponent. “I beat him, I become the number one contender, and I’m sitting cageside watching Islam and Arman, the first month or so of 2025,” Chandler boldly declared.
The current UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, has taken notice of the upcoming Chandler-Oliveira rematch, tweeting, “Chandler vs Oliveira 2 is a very interesting fight to watch. Get an impressive win, and the champ might grant you an audience next.”
Makhachev’s remarks have only added to the intrigue surrounding this pivotal matchup. Chandler wasted no time in responding, stating, “It would be an honor.”
Should Chandler emerge victorious, he would position himself for a potential title shot against Makhachev or the winner of a rumored clash between the champion and Arman Tsarukyan, the top-ranked contender in the division.
But Chandler’s ambitions don’t stop there. The veteran fighter has also expressed a willingness to face another high-profile opponent in the form of Conor McGregor, should “The Notorious” make his long-awaited return to the Octagon in 2025.
Chandler said, “I’m sure he’ll hear from me when I steal a promo at the end of the fight.” “I probably should have kept that a secret, but we’ll see.” Yeah, we got something planned. Conor’s name will undoubtedly come up. Whether we fight or not, Chandler and McGregor will be inseparable for the rest of our lives.
The prospect of a Chandler-McGregor showdown has long been a topic of speculation among MMA fans, and the former Bellator champion seems eager to make it a reality if the opportunity presents itself.
As the UFC 309 co-main event approaches, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Michael Chandler as he looks to rewrite the narrative of his previous encounter with Charles Oliveira. Chandler is poised to make a lasting impact in the final chapter of his illustrious career, with the potential for a UFC lightweight title shot and a high-profile clash with Conor McGregor on the horizon.