Michael Chandler experienced a significant setback in his UFC career at UFC 314. Paddy Pimblett defeated him in the third round, ending the fight with strikes on the ground.
Unlike his usual aggressive fighting style, Chandler appeared less dominant in this match. He struggled to finish Pimblett and seemed to lose momentum after the first round. Pimblett capitalized on this, ultimately securing a decisive victory against the 38-year-old veteran.
This loss marks Chandler`s fifth defeat in seven UFC fights and his third consecutive loss. UFC veteran Matt Brown has voiced concerns about Chandler`s performance, questioning if Chandler is past his peak and acknowledging Pimblett`s strong showing.
Brown discussed on “The Fighter vs. The Writer” podcast whether Chandler`s previous success was overstated or if Pimblett is exceptionally talented. He noted Chandler`s victories in Bellator against top fighters but questioned if Chandler was ever truly suited for the UFC`s level of competition. Brown also speculated if Chandler might have been distracted by the “action fighter” persona promoted by Dana White. While impressed with Pimblett`s recent performance, Brown remains uncertain if Pimblett is championship material.
Brown suggests that “Chandler might be past his prime or not originally cut out for the UFC, and Paddy could be a top 10 contender,” indicating both could be true simultaneously, with Pimblett proving his top-tier potential.
It`s argued that Chandler`s prime years might have been in Bellator, and his move to the UFC came too late in his career.
Although Chandler has delivered exciting fights in the UFC, he hasn`t achieved the championship success he had in Bellator. Brown acknowledges the higher level of competition in the UFC, suggesting Chandler may not be able to compete at that level consistently.
Brown reiterated his question about Chandler`s prime being in Bellator, emphasizing Chandler`s skill but feeling his best performances were pre-UFC. He suggests Chandler might be past his prime or too focused on living up to the hype surrounding him.
Brown drew a comparison to Justin Gaethje, who initially seemed like he would prioritize exciting fights over strategy, similar to Chris Lytle. However, Gaethje evolved, while Chandler seems to have embraced the role of a purely action-oriented fighter.
Chandler`s future career path is uncertain.
Prior to UFC 314, Brown had suggested Chandler consider retirement if he lost to Pimblett, as a path back to championship contention would be extremely difficult.
Chandler has stated his goal was to win a UFC championship, not just to have a long career. With three consecutive losses, another title shot seems unlikely before his career ends.
Brown believes this could be the end for Chandler unless a fight with Conor McGregor materializes.
Brown noted Chandler`s “belt or nothing” mentality and suggests that if he stays true to this, retirement might be the best option. However, Brown also acknowledges Chandler`s value in exciting matchups and suggests he could still headline or co-headline Fight Night events.
Brown believes a fight with Conor McGregor, given both fighters` recent losses, could be a viable option, even suggesting a bare-knuckle fight. He recognizes Chandler`s marketability and numerous potential career paths despite the recent loss.
Brown reluctantly acknowledges that Chandler is at a career crossroads, and it`s possible his last fight has already happened.
Brown expressed regret at this assessment of Chandler, calling him a “warrior.” He points out Chandler`s limited UFC wins, excluding the Tony Ferguson fight, and questions his next steps in the sport.
