Michael Chandler has become a polarizing figure who seems to have drawn criticism from multiple notable athletes in his division.
“He’s a product of media, my brother,” says Moicano, setting the tone for a series of grievances shared by others.
Poirier pointed out questionable tactics from Chandler during competitions. “He sticks his fingers inside my mouth, grips my mouth guard, pulls my head up to try to get his hand under my chin,” reveals Poirier, describing an unpleasant encounter.
Moicano, Gathje and Tsarukyan also have nothing good to say about Chandler.
Islam Makhachev offered his perspective: “Every night he goes to bed and has dreams about facing Conor McGregor.” Makhachev adds with confidence, “Very smart, he lost last three matches.”
Tsarukyan expressed similar sentiments, suggesting it would be “number one easy” Oliveira prevail against Chandler.
Perhaps the most notable criticism came from Tony Ferguson, who coined the now-famous phrase “Dana White privilege” in reference to Chandler’s rapid rise in the organization. The comment notably drew a reaction from UFC President Dana White himself.
Even casual interactions have become points of contention. Dustin Poirier shared an encounter where Chandler questioned his connection to Madison Square Garden. “He looks at me when I say this is my house, he goes, ‘What, Madison Square Garden’s your house? This logo on the mat, this is your house?'”
Josh Thompson, a veteran of the sport, had previously warned about Chandler’s authenticity years before these incidents, though he didn’t elaborate at the time. His early assessment appears to have been prophetic, given the current sentiment among his peers.
The mounting criticism from such a wide array of respected athletes has created an interesting dynamic within the sport, suggesting there might be more to these stories than meets the eye.
