Michael Chandler admitted pivoting from his game plan likely cost him against Justin Gaethje, but he had a blast nonetheless.
Chandler (22-7 MMA, 1-2 UFC) showed incredible toughness in an all-out war against Gaethje this past Saturday at UFC 268, but ultimately he lost a unanimous decision. Chandler pressed the action early and managed to wobble “The Highlight,” who bit down on his mouthpiece and fired right back.
The former title challenger had to battle through some adversity when he was dropped by a blistering Gaethje (23-3 MMA, 6-3 UFC) uppercut, but a bloodied and battered Chandler never stopped throwing.
Chandler took to Instagram to address the loss in what was a “Fight of the Year” contender.
“We made some questionable decisions in the last one, but we had a blast! ill-advised yet entertaining is my strong suit.
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What a great camp we had at @sanfordmma. Huge thank you to my coaches and training partners. So happy to be home with @briechandler and Hapman.
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To the fans: I appreciate your guys’ support on this journey. The best is yet to come!
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See you at the top!”
Chandler, who’s 1-2 in the UFC now, also hinted at what he’d like next and he’s eyeing the sport’s biggest star, Conor McGregor.
2022 pic.twitter.com/Da0D3zhOEr
— Michael Chandler (@MikeChandlerMMA) November 8, 2021
McGregor responded by paying Chandler respect for his war against Gaethje and appears to be open to the fight down the line.
“I’m down at some stage for sure. Great fight the other night Mike, congrats!”
I’m down at some stage for sure. Great fight the other night Mike, congrats!
— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) November 8, 2021
Michael Chandler: We made some ‘questionable decisions’ in Justin Gaethje loss at UFC 268
