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Michael Chandler is no stranger to high expectations. Since joining the UFC, the former Bellator champion has brought relentless intensity, thrilling fights, and, often, heartbreakingly close finishes. Now, after a canceled showdown with Conor McGregor and a lengthy 24-month hiatus from the Octagon, Chandler is prepared to launch into a potentially career-defining run. Starting with a rematch against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, Chandler envisions a path leading to some of the biggest names in MMA: Islam Makhachev, McGregor, and Max Holloway. If he can pull it off, 2025 could be the year that cements Chandler’s legacy as one of the most electrifying fighters in the sport.
Redemption Against Oliveira: The First Hurdle
Chandler's return fight against Oliveira is a pivotal rematch that he sees as the key to reigniting his UFC title aspirations. Their first encounter in 2021 was an intense back-and-forth battle that saw Chandler nearly finish Oliveira in the first round, only to be stopped in the second. That loss stung, especially given that it was for the vacant UFC lightweight title. But Chandler has used the past two years to reassess his approach, sharpen his skills, and hone a game plan for redemption.
“I know what Charles brings to the table, and I know the mistakes I made last time,” Chandler shared with CBS Sports. “This time, it’s about doing what I do best: explosive striking, relentless pressure, and heart. Winning this fight isn’t just about avenging a loss. It’s the first step toward the title.”
A win over Oliveira, currently ranked No. 3 in the lightweight division, would catapult Chandler into title contention, positioning him to face the winner of the likely matchup between Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 311 in January.
The Makhachev Timeline and Chandler's Path to Gold
Chandler has made it clear: his ultimate goal is the UFC lightweight belt. But he’s acutely aware that the timing of a title shot with Makhachev could prove tricky. Makhachev is set to compete in January, and with Ramadan approaching, the champ wouldn’t likely be ready to defend his title again until mid-summer 2025. Chandler, eager to stay active and continue building momentum, isn’t thrilled about waiting.
“You must remember that Islam is probably fighting in late January,” Chandler explained. “He’ll need to take a break for Ramadan in February and March, which means he’s unlikely to fight again until June or July. I’m not sitting around until then.”
This leaves Chandler with a few strategic options. If he can secure a decisive win over Oliveira, he may push for a title fight in mid-2025. But Chandler also knows the unpredictability of the UFC and is open to taking another high-profile fight while waiting for a championship shot.
Unfinished Business with McGregor
One name that keeps resurfacing is Conor McGregor. Chandler’s anticipated clash with McGregor—following their stint as rival coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31—was canceled earlier this year, leaving fans and fighters alike disappointed. Chandler has expressed frustration over the delays and uncertainty surrounding McGregor’s return, but he’s still hopeful that the Irish superstar will eventually step into the cage with him.
“Chandler vs. McGregor from TUF 31. That chapter needs to close at some point,” Chandler said. “Conor wants that fight. He’s talked about it openly, and I want it too.”
If McGregor finally returns, a fight with Chandler would be one of the most highly anticipated matchups of 2025. For Chandler, it’s not only a chance to settle the score but also a potential springboard into a whirlwind of career-defining matchups.
Max Holloway’s Lightweight Move Adds New Possibilities
Another intriguing possibility is Max Holloway, the former featherweight champ who recently announced his full-time move to lightweight. Known for his toughness and relentless pace, Holloway presents an exciting challenge that Chandler is eager to embrace.
“Imagine it: Chandler vs. Oliveira, Chandler vs. McGregor, Chandler vs. Makhachev, Chandler vs. Holloway,” Chandler mused. “It would be the craziest four-fight run in a 12-month period that anyone has ever seen.”
Adding Holloway to the mix would make Chandler’s 2025 schedule one of the most action-packed in UFC history. It’s the kind of thrilling, legacy-defining journey that could elevate him to a level of fame and respect few fighters achieve.
The Road Ahead: Can Chandler Deliver?
Chandler’s enthusiasm, confidence, and ambition are infectious. But for all his firepower, the road he envisions is paved with some of the most challenging names in MMA. Oliveira, Makhachev, McGregor, and Holloway each bring distinct threats—Oliveira’s submission skills, Makhachev’s dominant grappling, McGregor’s striking, and Holloway’s relentless pace. Surpassing each of them within a single year would require
Chandler to be at his absolute best every time he steps into the cage.
Chandler’s resilience, explosive power, and unwavering self-belief make him a dangerous contender, especially with the stakes so high. But 2025 will not only test his skill set—it will test his endurance, patience, and mental fortitude.
If Chandler can clear the hurdles, deliver on his lofty goals, and manage to conquer the sport’s biggest names, he will indeed have cemented his place in MMA history. Whether he realizes this vision or not, one thing is certain: the coming year promises to be one of the most thrilling chapters in Michael Chandler’s already storied career.
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