Three-time former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler has long been linked with a possible fight against Conor McGregor. For many fans, this matchup has been on the radar for what seems like forever. But as the public eagerly awaits this fight, Chandler’s journey there has been easy.
The Ups and Downs of Chandler’s UFC Career
Chandler made a dramatic entrance into the UFC, knocking out Dan Hooker in the first round at UFC 257 in January 2021. His post-fight declaration that he hadn’t been “here a long time, but a good time” set the tone for what fans were hoping for an explosive run . . . . But despite the promising start, Chandler’s UFC journey has been marred by challenges. Chandler has gone 1-3 in four fights since his debut, and by November he will be sidelined for nearly two years, still awaiting a highly anticipated bout with McGregor.
Struggling with Self-doubt
In a recent interview with Action Network, Chandler opened up about his mental struggles during this wait. “My inner voice doesn’t think I deserve this fight, but I do,” Chandler admitted. He described the war in the country with a sense of skepticism that many can relate to. “We all have that little girl or little girl inside of us, and it’s okay to have them. It’s more authentic, more honest to talk about your struggles, your flaws, your doubts,” she said.
Chandler’s candor about his state of mind reveals a vulnerability rarely found in professional fighters. He acknowledges skeptics and haters but insists on moving forward. “Even if that little guy in that little town doesn’t believe we’re made for this crazy life, we just pat them on the back and say, ‘Okay. Just come on. We’ll keep climbing,'” Chandler said.
The Weight of the McGregor Fight
A potential fight with McGregor, although eagerly anticipated by fans, weighs heavily on Chandler. For McGregor, it will be a return to the Octagon after recovering from a brutal leg fracture in his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier. For Chandler, though, it’s not just another fight. It is a test of his physical and mental resilience.
Chandler acknowledges the pressures of being on the scene. “I taught him to keep that inner voice very quiet,” she says, reflecting on her upbringing in a small town with low expectations. “I was a little guy from a small town who was taught to do little things. But I’ve climbed out of that box my whole life.”
Embracing the Inner Voice
Chandler’s relationship with his inner voice has developed over time. Where he once saw her as an enemy, he now sees her as a partner in his journey. “I stopped hating him and just started hugging him and enjoying the cart,” Chandler said, noting that voice has been the driving force behind his accomplishments. “We’re on this journey together.”
While Chandler awaits official confirmation on the McGregor fight, he remains focused on the road ahead. Her story resonates with many who face similar battles with uncertainty and the pressure to live up to expectations. Whether or not a fight with McGregor materializes, Chandler has already left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans.
The Battle of a Warrior
Michael Chandler’s candid words on mental struggle provide insight into the often overlooked challenges faced by athletes. Navigating the uncertainty surrounding his ability to fight Conor McGregor, Chandler’s journey is a reminder that the toughest fights are often the ones on the inside.
