Everyone has a calling.
Some are born to be doctors: and others musicians or accountants or tech wizards.
Michael “Iron” Chandler was born to fight, both physically and mentally.
Since age five, Michael has wrestled in one form or another, starting in high school (two-time state champion), college (All-American his senior year at the University of Missouri), and now as one of the biggest names in the sport of mixed martial arts.
How he achieved it all is the same … he just never stopped fighting.
After finishing his collegiate career as a four-time NCAA Division I qualifier, Michael didn’t waste any time making the switch toward the ultimate goal of a career in mixed martial arts, fighting in various regional promotions before signing with Bellator MMA in 2010.
He promptly won his first three matches to set him up for a title shot against Eddie Alvarez at Bellator 58, which many consider an instant classic. The two went four rounds, with Chandler showcasing his trademark grit and tenacity to win his first title, Bellator Lightweight Champion, via rear-naked choke in the fourth round.
He’d go on to hold that title two more times, racking up a 21-5 record over his ten years with Bellator.
However, it was only a matter of time before he caught the attention of the UFC, finally signing with the promotion in September 2020. While he’s seen success and a near title (losing to Dustin Poirier for the Lightweight title in 2022), it’s what lies ahead that may be the most exciting and important moment in his fighting career.
He was named the main coach for one of the teams in the latest season of the hit television show The Ultimate Fighter. That in itself is big, but it only gets multiplied when you factor in who he’ll be coaching against – Connor McGregor. The mercurial superstar is in the process of trying to make a comeback and resurrect his career after a two-year hiatus from the sport, and thus, will be an interesting figure on the show.
Yet, as if that wasn’t enough, the two coaches won’t just squaring off outside the octagon this year but also in it. It’s been confirmed that Michael and McGregor will square off later in 2023 in what will arguably be the most anticipated fight of the year.
Needless to say, there will be plenty pulling for Michael, as he’s long been a fan favorite not just for his passion in the ring but also for his outspoken efforts on giving back to the community and working with charities, including the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the American Heart Association. He’s also a sought-after public speaker, sharing not only his experiences in sports but also his motivation to achieve more in life.
Because to Michael, it’s not enough to just go through life. You have to work every day to make something incredible. You have to fight for it.
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