Michael Chandler has always been known for his positive mindset. Recently, he opened up about his career and shared advice he would give to his younger self.
Chandler, 39, made his MMA debut in 2009. At the time, he had just finished his collegiate wrestling career. He attended the University of Missouri, where he was a walk-on to the wrestling team, which is an impressive achievement.
In an exclusive interview with Heavy Sports, Chandler reflected on starting MMA right after his collegiate wrestling career. He talked about the advice he would offer his younger self, who was just beginning in the sport. ‘Iron’ acknowledged that the MMA industry is full of uncertainty and emphasized the importance of mental strength.
“More than anything, I would just say, ‘Hey, man, just keep doing what you know is right and it’s all going to work out, eventually,’” Chandler said. “I’ve had a lot of times in my career where it felt like a career death sentence. Had a lot of times in my career where I wasn’t sure where this career was going to go, if this career was going to end. And then, eventually it all just works out.”
Michael Chandler Would Advise His Younger Self to Remain Authentic
Michael Chandler also discussed the value of staying authentic rather than trying to create a false persona. He explained how being true to oneself leads to long-term benefits, especially in terms of building genuine relationships.
The UFC lightweight takes pride in being a fighter promotions can rely on. Chandler believes that hard work pays off, no matter how long it takes.
“Ultimately, things usually work out for he who continues to diligently pound the pavement and keep his nose to the grindstone and keep doing the right things, being a man of his word, keeping a good reputation, never burning bridges, and just doing the right thing,” Chandler told Heavy Sports.
He stressed that that while being authentic might not immediately bring attention or views, it leads to a more fulfilling experience.
“Ultimately, you can lay your head on the pillow at night knowing you did it your way, and your way felt authentic to you. And, it’s all going to work out,” Chandler explained. “It’s not that people don’t do the right things, it’s that people don’t do the right things for long enough. And my life is a living testament of that.”
Chandler Achieved Success Early in His MMA Career
Chandler began his MMA career in 2009, and it didn’t take long for him to find success.
After beginning his career with an undefeated record, Chandler joined Bellator. After continuing his winning streak, he competed in the season 4 lightweight tournament. He defeated Marcin Held, Lloyd Woodward, and Patricky Pitbull to reach the finals.
In the finals, Chandler faced then Bellator lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez. It was a thrilling fight, and ‘Iron’ ultimately submitted Alvarez with a rear-naked choke in the 4th round.
Alvarez vs. Chandler is still considered by many to be one of the greatest fights in Bellator history. The victory put Chandler on the map and came just two years after his professional debut.
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post Michael Chandler Shares the Advice He’d Give to His Younger Self: EXCLUSIVE appeared first on Heavy Sports.