Chandler Backs Gaethje Title
Michael Chandler may not have a UFC fight booked right now, but he’s definitely not sitting idle when it comes to the lightweight title picture. The former Bellator champion threw his vocal weight behind fellow fan-favorite and knockdown drag-out specialist Justin Gaethje, calling for Gaethje to get his well-earned shot at goldregardless of what happens at UFC 314.
Gaethje’s Résumé Speaks Volumes
Speaking during media for UFC 300 this past April, Chandler didn’t mince words. In fact, he put all his chips on Gaethje when it comes to the next UFC lightweight title challenger. Gaethje, who turned in a highlight-reel knockout of Dustin Poirier with a head kick last summer, currently finds himself in the title conversation amidst a division brimming with elite talent.
“The guy has done enough. He’s excitement personified. Look at his resumehe’s knocked off some of the toughest contenders around and always delivers for the fans,” Chandler said.
There aren’t many in the 155-pound division who can match Gaethje’s recent run, or chaos factor. The ‘Highlight’ not only captured the BMF belt with that finish over Poirier but also recovered beautifully from a brutal loss to Charles Oliveira back in 2022. Two wins laterand plenty of carnage along the wayGaethje is alive and howling for a title shot.
The Title Landscape and Volkanovski’s Cloud
Atop the throne currently sits Islam Makhachev, whose dominance since beating Oliveira at UFC 280 remains unquestioned. But with featherweight kingpin Alexander Volkanovski momentarily stepping up in weight and the lightweight division hitting a slow burn, questions linger about who’s next.
Chandler believes Gaethje fits the bill better than anyone else.
“If we’re lining up the next guy for Islam or that belt, how do you not give it to Justin?” Chandler asked. “The timing works, the résumé worksand most of all, the fans want it.”
Indeed, Gaethje’s high-octane style has long made him a ticket-seller and a ratings magnet. Whether it’s a five-round firefight or a 90-second war, Gaethje brings carnage with techniquea perfect storm for a pay-per-view main event and, perhaps most importantly, a storyline the UFC can spin pure gold from.
Chandler’s Role in the Title Picture
Now, let’s not forget Chandler himself isn’t sidelined for nothing. He’s been waiting patientlysome might argue too patientlyfor a showdown with Irish megastar Conor McGregor, although that bout’s been parked in the rumor mill so long it’s collecting rust.
Still, Chandler’s focus on Gaethje’s positioning could very well be a signal of his own confidence in the division’s movementor perhaps a sense of urgency or respect toward a rival who, like himself, doesn’t know how to put on a bad fight.
“We’re all competitors, sure,” Chandler said. “But I’ve got no problem giving credit where it’s due. Justin deserves the title shot. Period.”
Timing is Everything
It’s still unclear when Gaethje might get his crack at the undisputed strap, especially with Makhachev looking for fresh challenges and several lightweights circling the picture. But Chandler’s endorsement may carry substantial weightboth with fans and UFC brass looking to construct the next viable pay-per-view event that blends entertainment and legitimacy.
One thing is certain: Justin Gaethje’s blend of violence and valor continues to make headlines. And now, with Chandler’s public support, his case just got a lot louder.
Final Thoughts
In a sport where trash talk often overshadows merit, it’s refreshing to see a fighter like Chandler set ego aside and lift up a fellow warrior. Whether the UFC agrees with his matchmaking vision or not, Gaethje’s name deserves to be in bright lights once againonly this time, maybe with “Champion” etched beside it.
Time will tell, but if Chandler’s right, we may be in for another classic when the lightweight title is next up for grabs. And if that classic involves Justin “The Highlight” Gaethje… well, chaos is guaranteed.
