Michael Chandler recently expressed his opinion on the UFC lightweight championship landscape, strongly endorsing Justin Gaethje as the primary contender to face Ilia Topuria. Chandler’s comments come amid ongoing speculation about who will receive the next title shot following Topuria’s victory at UFC 317.
Ilia Topuria claimed the vacant lightweight belt at UFC 317, igniting debates about the rightful challenger. Fighters like Arman Tsarukyan and Paddy Pimblett have emerged as possible candidates, but Gaethje’s camp has raised concerns about a potential retirement if he is overlooked for the title opportunity. Chandler weighed in on this heated conversation, advocating for Gaethje as the deserving challenger.
Chandler Questions Tsarukyan’s Title Shot Due to Previous Withdrawal
During an interview on The Ariel Helwani Show, Michael Chandler cast doubt on Arman Tsarukyan’s suitability for a title match against Topuria. He referenced Tsarukyan’s withdrawal from a key bout against Islam Makhachev, suggesting it undermines his claim to a title shot in the eyes of matchmakers and fans. This perspective challenges Tsarukyan’s position as a frontrunner in the lightweight division.
Instead, Chandler highlighted Justin Gaethje’s credentials, emphasizing his consistency and long-standing excellence within the UFC’s lightweight ranks. Gaethje’s reputation as a former BMF title holder and persistent contender formed the basis of Chandler’s argument, positioning Gaethje as an ideal challenger for the newly crowned champion.
The Hunter Campbell hat is way different than my hat. My hat is man, give that fight to Gaethje. I wanna see Gaethje go out there and fight for a title,
Chandler said.
You got the rivalry with Paddy [Pimblett] and you’ve got Gaethje, whose just been a mainstay in the organization and in the top of the division. I would give to Gaethje. If not Gaethje, heck, Paddy.
Praise for Ilia Topuria’s Fundamental Skills and Swift Ascent
Beyond supporting Gaethje as the next challenger, Chandler also offered high praise for Ilia Topuria’s rapid rise and fighting approach. According to Chandler, Topuria’s success stems from mastering the basics rather than flashy or overly complex moves. He highlighted the champion’s patience, timing, and ability to control distance as key factors setting him apart in the division.
Chandler described Topuria as potentially the most impressive mixed martial artist in the world today due to his disciplined technique and fight IQ. This measured and fundamental style distinguishes Topuria, making him a difficult opponent to overcome. Chandler’s admiration underscores Topuria’s status as an emerging superstar across multiple weight classes.
[Topuria] might be the most impressive mixed martial artist on the entire planet right now, by far,
Chandler said.
His ability to navigate and negotiate the distance, as well as to know at the exact right time when to throw his attacks, which are not very flash, and I love that the most about him.
He’s impressive, man. And, I don’t see him losing any time soon,
Chandler added.
Detailed Insights into a Potential Championship Clash Between Topuria and Gaethje
Michael Chandler also provided an expert analysis of how a lightweight title fight between Topuria and Gaethje might unfold. Having faced Gaethje himself at UFC 268 in a memorable battle, Chandler offered firsthand insights into Gaethje’s fighting style and evolution over time.
Their bout at UFC 268 was a hard-fought contest, with Gaethje earning a unanimous decision victory thanks to a strategic and polished performance. Known initially for his aggressive and wild exchanges, Gaethje has since refined his approach, adopting more tactical fighting methods without losing his trademark intensity.
Chandler believes this more disciplined Gaethje would pose a serious threat to Topuria, even as the champion displays exceptional fundamentals. Chandler pointed out that the previous, more reckless version of Gaethje might have been vulnerable to knockout punches from Topuria, but the current, tactical Gaethje has a better chance to succeed.
The old Gaethje would probably go out there and get starched because he’s going to run into one of those punches,
Chandler told The Ariel Helwani Show.
Best chance to beat [Topuria]? I’d still go with Gaethje just because of how impressive his entire career has been, and he’s kind of cleaned it up and he’ll fight more tactically.
Implications for the UFC Lightweight Division’s Future
Chandler’s recommendations carry weight given his status as a seasoned fighter and former Bellator champion. His advocacy for Justin Gaethje as the next title challenger emphasizes Gaethje’s sustained relevance and skill level in a highly competitive UFC lightweight division. Should the promotion follow Chandler’s suggestion, fans may witness an intense and strategically compelling title fight between Gaethje and Topuria.
Meanwhile, Topuria’s reign appears strong as he combines technical precision with physical prowess, making him a formidable champion unlikely to lose his belt soon. The matchup Chandler envisions stands to generate substantial excitement, potentially elevating both athletes’ legacies.
As the UFC lightweight landscape continues to evolve, the question of who faces Topuria next remains a hot topic. Chandler’s perspective adds depth to this debate and hints at high-stakes showdowns ahead for the division’s elite fighters.