Michael Chandler: ‘Bloody and broken’ after UFC 309 and ready to crush Conor McGregor!

Chandler’s Grueling Rematch with Oliveira

Michael Chandler’s return to the octagon at UFC 309 was anything but smooth. Facing Charles Oliveira in a grueling five-round war, Chandler admitted to experiencing the most pain in his life after the fight. Despite a phenomenal training camp, the battle left him battered, both physically and emotionally. “My body is jacked. My heart is full,” Chandler shared, reflecting on the emotional highs and physical toll of the match.

The Aftermath: Blood, Swelling, and Injuries

The physical consequences of the fight were staggering for Chandler. He recounted peeing blood and dealing with extensive swelling and inflammation across his body. The injuries reached a severity he had never encountered before. “It had a light tint at first, then looked like beet juice,” Chandler said, describing the alarming aftermath of his injuries. These hardships underscored the brutal realities of high-level MMA competition.

Knee Injury: A Fight-Changing Moment

Adding to his woes, Chandler revealed a debilitating knee injury sustained early in the bout. According to him, the injury occurred during an intense first-round exchange, hampering his mobility throughout the fight. “My leg wasn’t stepping, wasn’t catching, it was unstable,” he explained, noting how this severely impacted his ability to pressure Oliveira. Watching the fight back, Chandler recognized his movements were uncharacteristically compromised, especially when advancing.

Looking Ahead: Recovery and a Possible McGregor Fight

Despite the setbacks, Chandler remains optimistic about his future. While he awaits an MRI to assess his knee injury, he has already set his sights on returning next summer. The former Bellator champion is also eyeing a blockbuster fight with Conor McGregor, a matchup that has been teased since their time coaching The Ultimate Fighter. Chandler believes McGregor’s return must go through him, saying, “If he does, there’s a guy waiting, and I think I’m one of the top draws in the UFC.”

McGregor’s Legacy and Chandler’s Confidence

Chandler also spoke about McGregor’s deep connection to the UFC and his need for a meaningful comeback. “He knows he’s nothing without the UFC,” Chandler said, emphasizing McGregor’s sentimental ties to the sport. Confident in his marketability, Chandler declared his belief that fans would eagerly pay to watch him fight anyone, especially an icon like McGregor. With his resilience and ambition intact, Chandler is ready for whatever the future holds.