M. Chandler (photo) faces D. Hooker in the UFC 257. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram
One of the biggest names in Bellator history, Michael chandler He wants to prove that he didn't move to Ultimate just to be another lightweight (up to 70,3kg). With a confirmed premiere for UFC 257, on January 23, in Abu Dhabi, the North American wants to put on a real show against Dan Hooker. Thus, the athlete would try to attract the eyes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, division champion, retired since October.
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“I want to put a stamp on my debut, showing who I am to UFC fans, finishing Dan Hooker or dominating. That would put me in the position of facing the winner of Conor (McGregor) x (Dustin) Poirier or getting a chance to fight for the belt against Khabib”, he stated, in an interview with 'MMA Fighting'.
Even hanging up his gloves after unifying the group's belt against Justin gaethje, UFC 254, Khabib remains one of the strongest names in Ultimate and maintains his relevance in the media and among fans. With that in mind, Chandler believes that a clash against the Russian would be extremely important for his successful career. Therefore, Michael revealed the plan to attract the attention of the 'Eagle'.
“I think if I go there (in the octagon) and show my wrestling skills… There is no doubt that I want to knock out Dan Hooker, but I also want to show the world my wrestling qualities. I want to show good old American wrestling. Maybe I can convince Khabib to return for the 'American wrestler against Russian sambo', and thus see if he can get his thirtieth victory, defeating me”, concluded Chandler.
Michael has not performed since August 2020. On that occasion, in his farewell fight from Bellator, the fighter beat the former UFC champion, Ben henderson, with a brutal knockout in the first round. Shortly afterwards, the athlete was announced as a new UFC signing, and was even the immediate reserve of Khabib and Gaethje in the UFC 254.
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