Michael Chandler recently shared his thoughts on the UFC lightweight title picture and made a strong case for Justin Gaethje. Chandler believes his former rival should be Ilia Topuria‘s first challenger.
Topuria captured the vacant lightweight championship at UFC 317. Since then, there’s been speculation on who will challenge him and who deserves the title shot. Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett appeared to be front runners. Gaethje, however, made headlines by suggesting he might retire if he’s overlooked.
During an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Chandler dismissed the idea of Tsarukyan challenging Topuria. He pointed to his withdrawal from his previous opportunity against Islam Makhachev as a strike against him.
Chandler instead backed Gaethje. He praised the former BMF title holder’s consistency and long-standing presence at the top of the division.
If Gaethje doesn’t get the title shot against Topuria, Chandler believes the UFC would capitalize on an already existing rivalry.
“The Hunter Campbell hat is way different than my hat. My hat is man, give that fight to Gaethje. I wanna see Gaethje go out there and fight for a title,” Chandler said. “You got the rivalry with Paddy [Pimblett] and you’ve got Gaethje, whose just been a mainstay in the organization and in the top of the division. I would give to Gaethje. If not Gaethje, heck, Paddy.”
Michael Chandler Praises UFC Lightweight Champion Ilia Topuria
Chandler didn’t stop at advocating for Gaethje. He also praised reigning UFC lightweight champion Topuria for his quick rise to superstardom across two divisions. According to the former Bellator champion, ‘El Matador’ style has set him apart from the rest.
Speaking to Ariel Helwani, Chandler focused on Topuria’s basic fundamentals. He admired the lightweight champion’s patience and timing rather than relying on flashy techniques.
“[Topuria] might be the most impressive mixed martial artist on the entire planet right now, by far,” Chandler said. “His ability to navigate and negotiate the distance, as well as to know at the exact right time when to throw his attacks, which are not very flash, and I love that the most about him.”
“He’s impressive, man. And, I don’t see him losing any time soon,” he added.
Chandler Analyzes on Potential Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje Fight
Chandler also broke down what might unfold in a potential Topuria vs. Gaethje lightweight title clash. As someone who’s fought Gaethje, Chandler offered valuable insight into how the bout could play out.
Chandler and Gaethje fought at UFC 268 in a thrilling lightweight bout that saw both trade blows. ‘The Highlight’ emerged with the unanimous decision win after the judges scored the bout 29-28, 29-28, and 30-27.
Although he’s known for wild exchanges, Gaethje has adopted a more measured approach. As a result, Chandler believes this version of ‘The Highlight’ could be a serious challenge for Topuria.
“The old Gaethje would probably go out there and get starched because he’s going to run into one of those punches,” Chandler told The Ariel Helwani Show. “Best chance to beat [Topuria]? I’d still go with Gaethje just because of how impressive his entire career has been, and he’s kind of cleaned it up and he’ll fight more tactically.”
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