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Why Michael Chandler Is An Interesting Man

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Jacob Walters | Last updated 5/13/24

UFC 303 is heavily focused on one man and one man alone: Conor McGregor. The legendary lightweight’s return is drawing a crowd, already shattering the UFC gate record. Imagine what more than $20 million in ticket sales can do for a promotion.

However, it’s his opponent in the main event that deserves some love on his own. That man is Michael Chandler (23-8) and he also deserves recognition for being a good MMA fighter. After all, McGregor wouldn’t select him as his opponent for his return fight at UFC 303, right?

So let’s examine Michael Chandler and what makes him special. Why should fans also watch Chandler and root for him? What makes him a worthy opponent for McGregor?

Michael Chandler Changed His Character

Long ago, Michael Chandler was an unrecognized individual, tending to his business. Nobody batted an eye towards the Missouri native, not even thinking about his very existence. He would talk his talk, only for nobody to notice. It wasn’t fun being Chandler, especially when nobody was paying attention. However, that changed with a Monday Night RAW appearance.

Michael Chandler called out Conor McGregor on an episode of RAW, putting the MMA world on notice. On February 19, Chandler had his moment, with the crowd cheering for him. It feels good to be a popular figure, doesn’t it?

Other Fighters Are Noticing Chandler

One of the fighters who’s paying attention to Michael Chandler is Daniel Cormier, who said that the lightweight went “full on Ric Flair.” The heavyweight legend applauded Chandler’s boldness and charisma, comparing it to the “Ringmaster Steve Austin” becoming “Stone Cold Steve Austin.”

In turn, Chandler’s June 29th match against McGregor has him hyped up. Just look at the recent tweet he sent out regarding the gate record.

$20,000,000+

— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) May 12, 2024

Fans are already anticipating an incredible fight between the two parties, with McGregor’s return setting the sports world on fire. However, it could be Chandler who steals the show, with charisma and tenacity that’s unparalleled. Imagine what would happen if Chandler pulled off the upset. The sports world would start paying attention to the 38-year-old lightweight.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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