Dustin Poirier, while not a known admirer of Michael Chandler, acknowledges Chandler`s relentless fighting spirit in the octagon.
However, at UFC 314, this tenacity seemed absent. Chandler suffered a dominant loss, finished by ground and pound in the third round by Paddy Pimblett, who delivered a striking performance against the former title contender. Despite an early takedown, Chandler struggled to find his rhythm, allowing Pimblett to seize control.
Pimblett`s victory came after a jumping knee strike, followed by a series of heavy blows on the ground, forcing the referee to stop the fight. This defeat marks Chandler`s third consecutive loss, bringing his UFC record to 2-5.
“Throughout this week, we`ve discussed how Chandler`s back was against the wall,” Poirier commented during the UFC 314 post-fight show. “Anthony [Smith] disliked the `crossroads` analogy, but I believe it was fitting. We witnessed another loss tonight, and it wasn`t just a loss; he was dominated by a younger fighter. It was a real beating.”
Typically, even in defeat, Chandler displays resilience, often giving as much as he takes and maintaining stamina even in five-round bouts.
But this wasn`t the case on Saturday. Poirier observed that Chandler appeared exhausted after the first round, which is when Pimblett began to capitalize.
Considering Chandler`s 38 years and a career marked by Fight of the Night performances, Poirier wonders if Chandler`s prime years are now behind him.
“In the first round, Chandler had some success with a takedown and wrist control,” Poirier noted. “He won the first round but seemed unlike himself in the second.
“He didn’t appear stable on his feet and seemed to slow down, something uncharacteristic for him in the second round. Despite being in excellent shape and looking great, age eventually catches up.”
Poirier`s reasoning is compelling, especially given 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 exited the octagon without addressing the defeat.
As for Pimblett, Poirier admits he is impressed, having initially viewed the Liverpool lightweight as more hype than substance.
“I thought he was a goofy-looking guy with a silly haircut, someone people were supporting as a novelty,” Poirier explained. “Like, ‘oh, he’s funny, let’s support this goofy guy!’ But when you combine that persona with winning fights, you become a massive star. That’s what he’s achieving. He transitioned from prospect to contender tonight. He is now a lightweight contender.”
“He’s in the top tier. Who is currently without a fight? Gaethje? Perhaps Arman? Oliveira? All exciting, great matchups. You don`t back down now; you continue to fight upwards towards a title shot. I think he deserves a fight with one of those top guys.”
