MIAMI – Despite being scheduled as the co-main event at UFC 314, Michael Chandler is convinced that his upcoming fight is the main attraction.
Chandler (23-9 MMA, 2-4 UFC), a former Bellator champion and UFC title contender, will face off against the emerging British talent Paddy Pimblett this Saturday at Kaseya Center (available on pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+). Their showdown will set the stage for the headline bout between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes, who are competing for the vacant featherweight championship.
Despite the title fight, Chandler views his matchup with Pimblett (22-3 MMA, 6-0 UFC) as the “People’s Main Event” of UFC 314.
Speaking at the UFC 314 media day, Chandler stated, “This is a fight people care about. Anytime I and Paddy step into the octagon, fans tune in. This fight has the potential to be ‘The People’s Main Event’.”
Chandler is coming off a two-fight losing streak and has only secured one victory in his last five UFC appearances. Despite his recent struggles, the 38-year-old remains unfazed.
“You need to go through struggle. You need to go through setbacks to find out who you are,” Chandler reflected. “I’m not hyper-focused on wins and losses. I’m focused on being successful.”
For more information about the event, check out MMA Junkie’s coverage of UFC 314.
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