UFC lightweight contender Michael Chandler has opened up about ongoing discussions with WWE’s Chief Content Officer Triple H regarding a potential transition to sports entertainment, revealing that conversations between the two have been progressing beyond initial exploratory talks.
Speaking candidly about his WWE aspirations, Chandler confirmed that negotiations are actively underway. “So I was talking to Triple H about my WWE contract. So we’re trying to make that happen,” the former Bellator champion told The Schmo, indicating that what began as casual conversations has evolved into more serious contract discussions.
This isn’t Chandler’s first foray into WWE talks with the company’s top executive. “I’ve had a couple,” he acknowledged when pressed about his history of communications with Triple H. The mutual respect between the two appears evident, with Chandler noting, “He knows I’m a fan of WWE and him and the brand. He’s obviously a fan of what I bring to the table from an entertainment standpoint, what I can do on the microphone.”
The 38-year-old Missouri native emphasized the collaborative nature of their discussions, describing them as “always fun conversations.” While maintaining a realistic perspective on the outcome, Chandler expressed optimism about the possibility. “Who knows if anything is ever going to happen? But he knows I want that door to be open, and I think he wants that door to be open, too.”
When asked about potential dream matchups should he make the jump to WWE, Chandler revealed an unexpected choice that showcases his appreciation for the company’s legendary performers. “I know it’s a little bit old school, but Rey Mysterio Jr. would be freaking fun,” he said, praising the veteran luchador’s continued excellence. “I know he’s still getting after it, still has it. But, man, that would be a really, really fun one.”
Despite his enthusiasm for facing the high-flying legend, Chandler acknowledged the physical challenges such a matchup might present. “It might be a little bit too acrobatic for me. I don’t want to start with the acrobats right away, but give me a little bit of training. I’ll be doing double backflips off and landing on people.”
True to his heel instincts, Chandler playfully suggested he would target Mysterio’s iconic mask, stating, “I would. That would always be the goal. Because, you know, I’m going to be the heel.”
The former three-time Bellator lightweight champion outlined his vision for a WWE character that would leverage his combat sports background and natural charisma. “I would go in there and absolutely show my wrestling background,” Chandler explained, referencing his collegiate wrestling credentials alongside his mixed martial arts experience.
Chandler’s confidence in his potential WWE impact is unmistakable. He believes his combination of athletic ability and microphone skills would create significant waves in the company. “I would go out there and I would show my wrestling background is superior to everybody. Every single one of these guys. And I would go in there and I’d absolutely wreck shop.”
The outspoken athlete predicts his WWE arrival would create substantial buzz throughout the organization. “I would probably turn the entire organization on its head. Everybody would hate me because Triple H is going to love me, just like the UFC.”
Drawing parallels between his relationships with top executives in combat sports, Chandler expressed confidence in his ability to win over WWE leadership. “Dana and Hunter and all these guys love me. Why? Because I go out, I pour my full self into the octagon, rip off a promo, do a backflip, draped in the stars and bars, and that’s why people don’t like me. It’s called jealousy.”
