Michael Chandler

Fighter Information

Michael Chandler Jr. (born April 24, 1986) is an American professional mixed martial artist. He currently competes in the Lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). Chandler previously competed for Bellator MMA from 2010 through 2020 where he became a three-time Bellator Lightweight Champion and won the Bellator Season Four Lightweight Tournament. As of November 18, 2025, he is #11 in the UFC lightweight rankings.
Full Name :
Michael Chandler Jr.
Birthdate :
24 April 1986
Birthplace :
High Ridge, Missouri, USA
Gender :
Male
Height (cm) :
173
Weight (kg) :
71
Residence :
Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Nationality :
United States
Status :
Married
Partner :
Brie Willett
Children :
Hap (Son, Born 2017), Ace (Son, Born 2022)
Education :
University of Missouri (University)
Career Started :
2009
Current Team :
Kill Cliff FC
Previous Teams:
Xtreme Couture (From 2009, To 2012), Alliance MMA (From 2012, To 2015), Power MMA (From 2015, To 2016), Blackzilians (From 2016, To 2017), Kill Cliff FC (From 2017, To Present), Nashville MMA (From 2018, To Present)
Rank Belt :
Black belt (10th Planet jiu-jitsu)
Reach :
180
Active Status :
From - 2009, To - Present
Ring Name :
Iron
Stance :
Orthodox

Biography

Michael Chandler is a notable professional MMA fighter who has made a considerable impact in the UFC. With a strong wrestling foundation, he combines striking and grappling effectively, leading to an impressive record of 23 wins and 10 losses. As a former three-time Bellator Lightweight Champion, he consistently ranks among the top lightweight fighters. Chandler’s aggressive fighting style has earned him multiple “Fight of the Year” nominations, highlighting his exciting performances. There’s much more to investigate about his career and achievements.

Early Life

Michael Chandler excelled in sports from a young age, showing a particular talent for wrestling. He dedicated himself to the sport throughout his childhood, which paved the way for his later success.

After completing high school, Chandler attended the University of Missouri, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Personal Financial Management Services and Real Estate. During his time in college, he was a standout competitor in NCAA Division I wrestling, which helped him develop a strong grappling foundation crucial for his future in mixed martial arts (MMA).

These early life experiences, combining a commitment to athletics and education, set the stage for his successful career in the UFC.

Family Life

Michael Chandler, a dedicated UFC fighter, expertly balances his demanding career with his family life.

He is married to Brie and they have two sons, Hap and Ace.

Chandler places a strong emphasis on the importance of family, often sharing his parenting experiences and insights.

Despite his rigorous fighting schedule, he remains actively involved in his family’s activities, reflecting his commitment to both his career and his loved ones.

This dedication to family is a core aspect of Chandler’s life, demonstrating his ability to prioritize being present for his family while pursuing his professional goals.

Career

Michael Chandler is a highly accomplished MMA fighter with a professional record of 23 wins and 10 losses.

Renowned for his thrilling fighting style, he is a former three-time Bellator Lightweight Champion and has consistently ranked among the top 10 lightweight fighters globally.

Chandler made an impressive UFC debut at UFC 257, where he secured a opening-round TKO victory over Dan Hooker, earning the accolade of “UFC Debut of the Year.”

His career has been marked by multiple nominations for “Fight of the Year,” reflecting his exciting performances in the octagon.

A recent highlight in his career includes a notable KO/TKO victory against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314, solidifying his status as an impressive competitor in the sport.

Net Worth

Michael Chandler’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million.

His disclosed career earnings of approximately $470,000 are complemented by notable fight purses from his top bouts, including $50,000 for his fight against Goiti Yamauchi at Bellator 192, $95,000 for his fight against Eddie Alvarez at Bellator 106, and other earnings from high-profile events.

Chandler’s status as a former three-time Bellator Lightweight Champion, combined with performance bonuses and lucrative sponsorships, further improves his overall financial standing in the MMA community.