In a recent episode of the JRE MMA Show #166, Joe Rogan made a bold statement about UFC fighter Michael Chandler. “I think, honestly, we got Michael Chandler after his prime,” Rogan said to Ilia Topuria. This statement has caused quite a stir in the MMA community, with many debating whether or not Rogan’s claim holds true. After taking a closer look at Chandler’s UFC run so far, it seems that Rogan may have a point.
It’s no secret that Chandler is a highly skilled fighter with an impressive record in Bellator. With multiple championship wins and a reputation for being one of the most dominant lightweights in the organization, Chandler was seen as a major acquisition for the UFC when he made his debut in January 2021. However, things have not gone according to plan for the 35-year-old fighter since joining the UFC.
Chandler’s first fight in the UFC was against Dan Hooker, and he made a big statement by knocking out his opponent in the first round. This victory led many to believe that Chandler was going to be a major contender in the lightweight division. However, his next fight against Charles Oliveira for the vacant UFC lightweight title didn’t go as well. Chandler was dominating the fight and looked like he was on his way to becoming the new champion, but Oliveira caught him with a left hook in the second round and ended the fight with a TKO. This loss came as a shock to many, and it was clear that Chandler’s age and years of fighting had caught up with him.
But the biggest blow to Chandler’s reputation came in his most recent fight against rising star Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314. Pimblett, known for his striking and finishing ability, made quick work of Chandler, knocking him out in the third round. This loss has left many questioning if Chandler has what it takes to compete with the younger, up-and-coming fighters in the UFC.
In light of these recent losses, Rogan’s statement about Chandler being past his prime holds some truth. While Chandler is undoubtedly a talented fighter, his age and years of competing have taken a toll on his performance. It’s clear that he is no longer the dominant force he once was, and his UFC run so far has been underwhelming compared to his time in Bellator.
However, despite these setbacks, Chandler has received some sympathy from an unexpected source- Conor McGregor’s father. In a recent interview, he spoke about how McGregor’s success and fame had ultimately led to his downfall in the sport. “McGregor destroyed his career,” he said. “He was getting into too many fights outside of the octagon, and it affected his performance inside. I feel for Chandler because it seems like he’s going down the same path.”
It’s a sentiment that many can relate to. McGregor’s fame and success outside of the octagon have often overshadowed his performance inside, and it seems that Chandler may be facing a similar fate. With the pressure of living up to his reputation and competing against younger, hungry fighters, Chandler’s UFC run has been a difficult one so far.
But it’s not all doom and gloom for Chandler. The fighter has a chance to bounce back and prove his doubters wrong. While it may seem like he’s past his prime, Chandler still has the skills and experience to make a comeback. And with the support of his fans and fellow fighters, he can overcome this rough patch and establish himself as a top contender in the UFC lightweight division.
In conclusion, Rogan’s statement about getting Chandler after his prime may hold some truth, but it’s not the end of the road for the fighter. With determination and hard work, Chandler can turn his UFC run around and show the world that he still has what it takes to be a top fighter. And with McGregor’s father offering his sympathy and words of advice, Chandler has the support he needs to overcome any obstacles in his path. We can only hope that he uses this motivation to come back stronger and reclaim his spot as one of the best lightweights in the UFC.
