Michael Chandler speaks on his potential title opportunity.
The former Bellator Lightweight World Champion could end up making his UFC debut as the next challenger for the prestigious 155-pound belt, if Justin Gaethje is forced to back out of the title match-up. While Chandler simply serves as a back-up for the big UFC 254 main event, this is still a huge opportunity that most fighters don’t get in their transition over to the UFC.
Speaking to TMZ, the 34-year-old reveals what he told UFC officials before officially signing a contract, stating that he wanted to fight a top five contender instantly:
“I told the UFC, ‘Listen, I’m not here for a long time – I’m here for a good time,” Chandler told TMZ. “I want to jump right into that top five right away. Either I am who I say I am, or I’m not. Sink or swim. Throw me in there with the wolves and let’s see where I come out.”
Despite coming off a hard fought battle against former UFC Lightweight Champion Benson Henderson last month, Chandler expects to be fully prepared to step in and take on Khabib or Justin on October 24:
“I fought Aug. 7, so that’s an 11-week turnaround,” Chandler said. “Not a lot of guys would take a fight on an 11-week turnaround, especially with a new organization. But for me, I’ve always been active. The day after my fight, I got right back to the gym.
“I wanted to be ready for this opportunity if there was an opportunity in October or November. But I just heard about that very, very recently, and I’m excited about the opportunity. I know I’m going to be ready to step into that cage Oct. 24 and beat either Khabib or Gaethje if something goes awry.”
In Chandler’s mind, he knows that he’s the best lightweight on the planet and he can’t wait to prove that during his time in the UFC:
“No disrespect – I’m a fan of and respect the work of every single guy in the UFC, period. But especially in the lightweight division, I’ve said it for 11 years: I’m the best lightweight on the planet,” Chandler said. “Have I disproven that theory numerous times by losing or having underwhelming performances? Absolutely. But people love a winner, but they love even more a winner who loses, comes back, and sets himself for a comeback.
“I’ve gone through a lot in this sport, and nothing can take this opportunity away from me. If it is Oct. 24, I’m going to be ready, and I think I’m just a different animal.”