Michael Chandler has signed a new deal with the UFC after it was confirmed that his UFC 281 bout against Dustin Poirier is now official.
Ever since entering the Ultimate Fighting Championship two years ago, Michael Chandler has done a pretty solid job of becoming a fan favourite. The former Bellator champion is 2-2 with the promotion but across all four of those bouts, he’s managed to put on a fantastic performance in wins over Dan Hooker and Tony Ferguson as well as defeats to Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira.
‘Iron Mike’ is the definition of persistence and at the age of 36, it still feels like he’s got a lot left in the tank.
His win over Ferguson, in particular, sent shockwaves through the mixed martial arts world as he knocked ‘El Cucuy’ out cold with a vicious front kick that once again proved just how crazy this sport is.
Now, in a fantastic two-in-one announcement, it’s been revealed that Chandler has signed a new multi-fight deal with the UFC to extend his already-successful stay.
In addition to that, the long-awaited confirmation of his bout with Dustin Poirier has finally arrived.
Chandler himself reacted to the news with his standard catchphrase as the countdown to his next outing begins.
“A date. A name. A location. Same demeanor. See you at the top! #ufc281â€
The Diamond awaits
If there’s one man who will serve as a fantastic test of where you’re at in the lightweight division, it’s Dustin Poirier.
The man known as ‘The Diamond’ is coming off the back of a UFC title loss to Charles Oliveira back in December. He’s been waiting for a chance to get back into the Octagon and he’s going to get it at UFC 281, which will emanate from Madison Square Garden.
The world’s most famous arena will be the host venue as Chandler and Poirier attempt to settle a feud that’s been ongoing for quite a few months now. The pair have gone back and forth over social media, they’ve confronted one another in person, and there seems to be some kind of genuine disdain amongst their mutual respect as competitors.