After Poirier's 'yes' to McGregor, Michael Chandler doesn't forgive and fires against lightweight

M. Chandler (right) gives an interview after his first UFC victory. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

The dominant role of Michael chandler about Dan Hooker No. UFC 257 made the company's management look favorably on the ex-Bellator's promotion to a lightweight title fight (up to 70,3kg). It would be perfect for the North American, if it weren't for the denial of Dustin poirier for the confrontation, which generated the anger of the 'freshman'. In an interview with 'MMA fighting', the newcomer criticized the decision of 'Diamante', who recently admitted the possibility of the trilogy against Conor McGregor.

See too

From the Bronx speaks out after Poirier's 'green light' for trilogy with McGregor

Dustin Poirier responds to Conor McGregor's trilogy challenge: 'Let's do it'

With an eye on the trilogy with Dustin Poirier, Conor McGregor reflects on the duel at UFC 257: 'Exciting'

“I think it's a little strange. It doesn't matter, who I was before UFC 257 It's very different in the eyes of the fans, the press, the rankings, from what I am after the event. With a dominant performance that I promoted against a guy that I beat in two and a half minutes, that he (Poirier) took 25 minutes to beat in the judges' decision. Dustin poirier He's a champion right now. I believe he should be one of the challengers for the belt. (…) Dana White said: 'Chandler's performance, Poirier's performance, it seems like it makes sense to put them together to fight for the belt”, said Michael.

The Ultimate president's speech took place at the press conference after the event held on January 23, after Poirier brutalized Conor McGregor in the main fight and Chandler's run over Dan Hooker. Moments later, in the same question and answer session, the 'Diamante' showed no interest in facing the former Bellator. On that occasion, the North American raised the name of Charles of the Bronx, who is in a great phase in his career and, at the moment, occupies third place in the group.

Although he was a great supporter of the Brazilian being worthy of a fight for the title – as he has won eight consecutive victories –, Poirier ended up surprising by confirming his interest in a new fight against Conor McGregor. Dustin's attitude angered Michael, who fired at the former interim champion.

“He said that if they want Chandler to fight for the belt, he will sell hot sauce (Dustin has an exclusive brand of the product), and maybe he will end up becoming a hot pepper salesman in the next few months. I think the title fight should go ahead. I'm not saying I'll be the other half of the event, but I know that life is made of opportunities. It's about saying 'yes'. (…) I said yes to everything the UFC proposed”, concluded Michael.

Considered one of the biggest names in Bellator history, Chandler was hired by Ultimate at the end of 2020. The athlete was even selected as an immediate reserve for the confrontation between Khabib Nurmagomedov e Justin gaethje, for the unification of the lightweight title. The debut, however, only took place in January, with an impeccable performance.

But what about Khabib?

While the elite of the category discuss the fight for the belt, the title remains closely guarded by Khabib, who retired in October. Although the Russian remains firm in his decision, the organization continues to keep the athlete on the throne of the group.

after the UFC 257However, White, who was confident in changing his pupil's decision, had a different stance and admitted that the category must continue without the legend. Still, there is no prediction about who will take on the fight that will define the next champion.