Chandler refuses vaccine against Covid-19 and puts fight against Gaethje at UFC 268 at risk; understand the case

M. Chandler at a UFC press conference. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube

Highlight in the light weight (up to 70,3kg.) of Ultimate, Michael chandler could jeopardize its presence in the fight against Justin gaethje, programmed for the UFC 268, in New York. Bellator legend, the fighter publicly declared that he will not take the vaccine against Covid-19, which violates state policy, which requires proof of immunization for mass events. The clash is scheduled to take place on November 6th.

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“I just saw that New York (state) has strict policies on New York City. Basically, they are requiring you to be vaccinated and show proof to show up at restaurants, gyms, and entertainment venues. Obviously, a UFC event held at Madison Square Garden is considered a closed event. I will not be vaccinated to date. I don’t know how many fighters, if I would be fighting on November 6th”, said the fighter, in a live broadcast on Instagram.

Even refusing the vaccine, created to reduce the mortality rate caused by the coronavirus pandemic, Chandler stated that he is not anti-vaccine. The lightweight then tried to explain her decision not to join the campaign.

“It’s not that I’m anti-vaccine, that I don’t believe in the vaccine. I just won't take it until it's 100% FDA approved (Food and Drug Administration). We have hundreds of clinical cases, as well as the vaccines that my son took, measles and chickenpox, and all that have been around for 100 years and have been proven (effective). (…) The chance that the UFC will be able to hold an event at Madison Square Garden with only vaccinated people really reduces its sales capacity. I think it raises doubts as to whether the event will actually take place there. Ultimate is brilliant for promoting your fights. Like I said, I'm not anti-vaccine. I think they are effective. I believe it is each person's choice. I will not be vaccinated until November 6th, so I will not be able to perform at Madison Square Garden”, he concluded.

With the dream of qualifying for a new lightweight title fight, Chandler is, to date, one of the main attractions of the UFC 268. The clash against Gaethje could put the winner in excellent condition for a duel for the title, which currently belongs to Charles of the Bronx, Michael's executioner in May.