Michael Chandler’s time in MMA could come to an end at UFC 314, according to an ex-fighter.
The former three-time Bellator lightweight champion knocked out Dan Hooker in 150 seconds to announce his UFC arrival in sensational style in January 2020 – but he’s struggled in the Octagon since then.
Michael Chandler has lost four of his past five fights against some of the best lightweights in MMA.
Now he’s dropped down several levels to face Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314 in Miami on Saturday night.
Will Michael Chandler retire after UFC 314?
Long-time UFC welterweight Matt Brown announced his retirement from MMA last May.
‘The Immortal’ believes Chandler should consider following him out of the sport if he loses at UFC 314.
“We really don’t like using that term, and we try to stay away from it, but this one I just can’t see it being anything other than do-or-die for him,” Brown told MMA Fighting.
“Whether die, I guess maybe is not the right word, but he said it very clearly himself before, ‘It’s a title or nothing. I’m not here to fight guys, just to make money or whatever’.
“The nice thing for Michael Chandler is he’s got a lot of options. Win or lose this fight, he’s got a great brand, people love him. I think he’d be an amazing commentator or an analyst, podcast-type guy. He’s really got a good voice for that kind of stuff. The potential for him is there, the brand is still there.
“[But] that’s why I’m bringing up podcasting and being an analyst or a commentator. Because it’s like if you lose to Paddy Pimblett, you better start thinking about what the next career is going to be or the next path.”
Paddy Pimblett predicts quick finish at UFC 314
Pimblett plans to push Chandler towards retirement inside the first 10 minutes of their clash.
The UFC 314 co-main event duo recently united for a joint interview to promote the card.
During their chat, ‘The Baddy’ predicted that he would win his biggest fight yet very quickly.
“I think I’m gonna finish Mike in two [rounds],” Pimblett said.
“As I say, I think I can end this fight anywhere. He loves lunging in with his punches, so I can see me catching him with a shot on the way in, putting him down. Or I can actually see me submitting him. I don’t see a way I lose, to be honest.”
