Michael Chandler challenges Paddy Pimblett and targets International Fight Week

Michael chandler before fighting in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Twitter/UFC

The oldest fighter among those ranked in the lightweight category (up to 70,3 kg) and with a negative record in the Ultimate, Michael chandler took to social media this Wednesday (12) to challenge the popular Paddy Pimblett, having the International Struggle Week as the preferred date. The event in question is UFC 317, which takes place on June 28, in Las Vegas.

See too

Dustin Poirier denies Paddy Pimblett retirement fight, gets taunted by Nate Diaz

UFC living legend believes in Topuria's chances in superfight against Makhachev, but cites crucial point that favors the Russian

Prochazka talks about how hard it was to prepare to face Hill: 'I traveled half the world'

The challenge was made in a post on the American's personal Instagram stories. With the recent announcement of the date of UFC 317, he posted an image of the city of Las Vegas and asked if one of the fights would be between the two with a written message.

Michael chandler challenged Paddy Pimblett for a duel in Vegas. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram.

The two athletes had been scheduled to face each other for some time. In December, the Englishman indicated that Chandler would be his next opponent through a message on social media. The following month, it was the American's turn to publicly say that he saw Pimblett as a favorable clash of styles.

Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett are living different moments in the UFC

Paddy Pimblett in victory in the UFC. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Former Bellator lightweight champion (up to 70,3 lbs.), Michael chandler is not going through a good phase in the UFC. Close to turning 39, the American has only two wins in the last four fights. His last triumph was against Tony Ferguson, in May 2022.

Yes, Paddy Pimblett is undefeated in the organization. The Englishman debuted in the Ultimate in September 2021, and since then has reached the mark of six consecutive victories. However, he has not yet gained any position in the category ranking. In his last appearance, at UFC 304, he defeated King Green with a triangle still in the first round, in July 2024.

Paddy Pimblett who needs to sleep Bobby Green at UFC 304

Clairement of the announcement of the anniversary 2024 pic.twitter.com/mPLt9Ots4k

— The Highlight (@TheHighlightFR) December 20, 2024