After announcing on social media that his last contracted fight with Bellator was approaching, former three-time Bellator Lightweight Champion Michael Chandler is going to be one of the biggest free agents in MMA. In order to promote his legacy, where will he go next?
With a professional record of 20-5, the veteran has spent a majority of his career with Bellator. With wins over Eddie Alvarez, Benson Henderson, and Brent Primus, starting a new chapter is certainly the right move. Chandler can fit in perfectly for organizations such as Pro Fighters League.
In addition, ONE Championship has been doing great as of late, and with Christian Lee winning Lightweight gold after a win over Shinya Aoki, a challenge from Chandler would intrigue MMA fans around the world.
With Rizin being partnered with Bellator, Chandler could signed there in order to keep in touch with both parties. It would ultimately allow for him to seek new fighters. With Tofiq Musayev winning the Lightweight Grand Prix, the Lightweight division has been steadily on the rise. Adding someone of Chandler’s caliber would result in favorable matchups.
Two promotions to possibly see Chandler in could be Cage Warriors and Legacy Fighting Alliance, but only if the former champion wants to test himself with some of the top rising stars in the world.
The UFC would be what solidifies Chandler’s career, as contenders in the Lightweight division include powerhouse names such as Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, Tony Ferguson and Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Including Chandler in the UFC would be beneficial for both sides, but time will tell where the veteran takes his talents.
