In the high-stakes world of UFC, fighters often need to stay active and victorious to maintain their relevance. However, Michael Chandler, a former three-time Bellator lightweight champion, has defied this norm. Despite not having fought in the last two years and experiencing several losses, Chandler’s stock continues to rise. This phenomenon has caught the attention of many, including UFC legend Chael Sonnen.
The Michael Chandler Phenomenon
Michael Chandler’s career trajectory has been anything but conventional. After transitioning from Bellator to UFC, Chandler quickly made a name for himself with a first-round knockout of Dan Hooker. However, subsequent losses to top-tier fighters like Dustin Poirier, Justin Gaethje, and Charles Oliveira seemed to stall his momentum.
Yet, according to Sonnen, Chandler’s worth has only increased during his period of inactivity. Sonnen believes that Chandler has managed to magnify his star power without stepping into the octagon. “In all fairness, we’re all chomping at the bit to see Michael Chandler,” Sonnen remarked. He emphasized that Chandler’s media presence and the anticipation surrounding his potential fights have kept him in the spotlight.
The Conor McGregor Factor
A significant part of Chandler’s strategy has been his unwavering commitment to fighting Conor McGregor.
Despite the fight being postponed multiple times, Chandler has remained focused on this high-profile bout. This commitment has led to criticism, with many urging him to accept other fights. However, Sonnen argues that this strategy has worked in Chandler’s favor, keeping him relevant and in the conversation.
Chandler himself has embraced this narrative, claiming a moral victory over McGregor. He recently stated that he prides himself on supposedly retiring McGregor without ever facing him in the cage. This bold claim has only added to the intrigue and speculation surrounding his career.
The Power of Media and Perception
Chandler’s rise in stock can be attributed to his savvy use of media and the power of perception. By staying in the headlines and engaging with fans and critics alike, he has maintained his relevance. Sonnen commended Chandler for forging himself into a star, despite not having fought in the last two years. “All this media, all this attention, the things that are dangling, you and I discussing him, I think he’s actually gone up. I think he got what he wanted without having to throw a punch,” Sonnen noted.
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