Michael Chandler, a well-known UFC fighter, is exploring opportunities to continue his career in WWE as his future in the UFC remains uncertain. The American athlete has openly discussed contract talks with WWE executive Triple H, signaling possible plans beyond mixed martial arts.
Chandler’s career in the UFC over the past five years has been marked by ups and downs following a highly successful period in Bellator with three title reigns. In the Octagon, he has won only two out of seven fights, facing defeats from top competitors including Charles Oliveira and Dustin Poirier. His victories since debuting with a win over Dan Hooker were limited to a single win against Tony Ferguson.
WWE and UFC Integration Eases Crossovers for Fighters Like Chandler
The evolving relationship between UFC and WWE has created an environment where athletes might move more freely between the two sports. This synergy was strengthened when Endeavor, the parent company of UFC, acquired WWE in 2023, merging their financial interests under the TKO group. This merger allows promotions for both MMA and wrestling events to intersect, fueling speculation about fighters like Chandler making a transition into pro wrestling.
In an interview with The Schmo, Chandler confirmed ongoing discussions about joining WWE.
“I was talking to Triple H about my WWE contract, so we’re trying to make that happen,”
he said. He elaborated on their shared interest:
“He knows I’m a fan of WWE and him and the brand. He’s obviously a fan of what I bring to the table from an entertainment standpoint, what I can do on the microphone.”
Chandler acknowledged the mutual desire from both sides to keep the option open:
“He knows I want that door to be open, and I think he wants that door to be open too,”
he added. Triple H, also known as Paul Levesque, is a former WWE star who currently serves as the company’s chief content officer, playing a key role in talent development and creative decisions.
Chandler’s Previous WWE Exposure Highlights His Promo Skills
Though primarily recognized in the MMA world, Michael Chandler would not be entirely unfamiliar to WWE fans if he joins the wrestling promotion. Earlier in 2024, he appeared during WWE’s Monday Night Raw event at Anaheim’s Honda Center, where he delivered an energetic promo calling out Conor McGregor. The two were scheduled to face off in a high-profile MMA match that ultimately did not happen due to McGregor withdrawing with a toe injury.
Chandler’s reputation for engaging microphone work inside the UFC octagon has made fans eager to see him crossover to professional wrestling. His ability to entertain and captivate audiences would be a natural fit for WWE’s style of sports entertainment.
Joining WWE would place Chandler alongside several prominent fighters who successfully navigated careers in both sports, including Ronda Rousey, Brock Lesnar, and Bobby Lashley.
Significance of a Possible Move to WWE for Chandler’s Career
Michael Chandler’s willingness to pursue WWE amid a challenging UFC run reflects a strategic move to extend his career and maintain his public presence. A three-fight losing streak, capped by a decisive defeat to Paddy Pimblett, has temporarily removed him from the lightweight title picture. Nonetheless, Chandler’s fierce competitiveness and charisma position him well for success in wrestling.
This crossover opportunity exemplifies the increasing collaboration between UFC and WWE, potentially offering fighters new avenues to showcase their talents. Chandler’s current negotiations with Triple H suggest that his future might well lie in the entertainment-rich world of WWE, providing him with a fresh platform to engage fans and utilize his skills.