Michael Chandler revealed he met heavyweight champion Jon Jones prior to UFC 309.
With the event stacked with multiples good fights, the pair shared some banter before their respective fights.
Chandler is making his long awaited return to the Octagon whilst Jones is defending his belt against Stipe Miocic.
Jon Jones Jokes Around With Michael Chandler Ahead of UFC 309
With Jon Jones headlining the event at UFC 309 to determine who the greatest fighter at heavyweight is. Michael Chandler squares off with Charles Oliveira. Speaking to New York Sports Post Chandler said; “It’s a huge blessing to be considered for the Madison Square Garden card. They (UFC) don’t just throw anybody on the Madison Square Garden card. The UFC puts guys and gals on the fight card that are gonna put on a great show,”
“I saw Jon Jones at UFC 306 at the Sphere, we said hi, took a picture together, you know, the main and co-main (event) and he’s like, ‘Hey man, make sure you save some excitement for me because I’m the main event’, and I’m like, ‘Yeah, probably not man I’m coming to steal the show.’
Chandler Vows Rematch With Charles Oliveira Will Be Different
Michael Chandler went on to say; “I wasn’t where I needed to be (in the first fight), I went in there very confident, I put in a good training camp but I went out there and tried to kill Charles Oliveira in the first second of the first round, 10-8’d him in the first round and just wasn’t able to keep that pace. I made a bad decision.
“I’ve since fixed all of those things, mainly mentally and spiritually and I just think it’s gonna be a masterful performance and I think I’m gonna surgically and systematically break this man down until he looks for the exit sign.”
Chandler is facing a huge challenge ahead of UFC 309 with his last bout coming in November 2022. The American has been waiting for a chance to face off against Irish superstar Connor McGregor, which never materialized. Oliveira is a tough opponent and is looking for a tile opportunity next year. Blessed with excellent grappling ability Oliveira holds the most submission victories in the lightweight division.
Michael Chandler has said the winner of this fight will get a title opportunity, adding more pressure to an already highly anticipated fight. Chandler comes from a wrestling background and his fights are always high energy. Renowned for his one punch knockout ability Chandler will be hoping to make up for lost time.
Will Michael Chandler beat Charles Oliveira? Let us know in the comments!
