Brent Primus criticizes Michael Chandler’s performance after his UFC 309 loss

Michael Chandler’s much-anticipated return to the UFC after a two-year layoff was met with sharp criticism from his former opponent, Brent Primus. Chandler faced Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 in hopes of climbing back into title contention, but a decisive loss left him under scrutiny. Among his harshest critics, Primus didn’t hold back, openly questioning Chandler’s performance, preparation, and career trajectory.

Chandler’s Struggles in the Octagon

Chandler entered UFC 309 with high expectations but suffered a lopsided unanimous decision loss despite a last-ditch effort in the final round. The defeat extended his record to 1-4 in his last five fights, raising questions about his viability as a lightweight contender.

Primus, who battled Chandler twice in their Bellator days, was blunt in his assessment. “Man, he looked like crap in his last fight,” Primus told MMA Fighting. He criticized Chandler’s footwork, execution, and striking mechanics. “He was falling everywhere and throwing punches like he was throwing a baseball. I was not impressed at all.”

Ring rust and extended layoff to blame?

Chandler’s extended inactivity—primarily due to waiting for a fight against Conor McGregor that never materialized—seemed to be a key factor in his poor performance. “That’s what happens when you take two years off waiting for somebody,” Primus remarked. He pointed to signs of ring rust, noting Chandler’s lack of balance and precision.

“There were rounds that could have been 10-8, and his feet weren’t underneath him,” Primus continued. “He tripped on the cage, and his punches were telegraphed. It’s clear he wasn’t setting up his shots properly.”

Bad Blood Between Primus and Chandler

Beyond technical criticism, Primus didn’t hide his personal disdain for Chandler. The rivalry, rooted in their heated encounters during Bellator, remains unresolved. “I don’t like that guy,” Primus said. “I think Chandler is a cheater and a dirty fighter.”

Primus seemed to enjoy seeing Chandler struggle, saying, “Watching Oliveira pick him apart like that was fun to see. I liked it.”

What’s Next for Michael Chandler?

Chandler’s loss to Oliveira highlights the difficulty of returning to elite-level competition after a long hiatus. As his record continues to slide, Chandler’s future in the UFC lightweight division appears uncertain.

For critics like Primus, Chandler’s performance only reinforces doubts about his ability to reclaim his former glory. If Chandler hopes to remain relevant in the division, he’ll need to address these weaknesses and adjust his approach moving forward.