Close to UFC 309 rematch, Chandler reveals regret over first fight against Do Bronx

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

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Michael chandler is back in the octagon to face an old acquaintance. Almost two years after his knockout loss to Charles of the Bronx in the fight for the UFC lightweight belt (up to 70,3 kg), the American will have the chance for a rematch on November 16, in New York. And the reason for this new fight, according to him, is simple: he considers himself a completely different fighter now.

In an interview with journalist Ariel Helwani, the American admitted that, in the first fight against the Brazilian, in May 2021, he was still adapting to the highest level of MMA.

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“I was very young, even though I was older. I was very young, very inexperienced in the sport, I only had two and a half minutes of experience in the octagon,” Chandler said.

The absence of fights since November 2022, when it was overcome by Dustin poirier, also weighed on the decision to accept the rematch.

“It was almost two years away from the octagon, away from competition. I became a completely different man,” added the American.

Chandler was expected to face the Irish star Conor McGregor, after participating in the reality show 'The Ultimate Fighter'. However, the plans were thwarted due to injuries and problems with the Irishman's anti-doping program.

With McGregor's return postponed until 2025, Michael decided to move on and accept Do Bronx's challenge. The Brazilian, in turn, is coming off a loss to Arman Tsarukyan in April and seeks to return to the path of victories.