MMA fighter Michael Chandler expressed sadness over rumors that the PFL is close to finalizing a deal to purchase Bellator, an organization where he fought 23 times, won the lightweight title three times, and set a number of promotional records.
Should Bellator prove to be truly on its last legs, then the sorrow Michael Chandler feels at its potential passing will be quite genuine. Speculation has been running rampant in the MMA community lately about the PFL nearing an agreement to acquire Bellator. No official announcements have been made as of yet, but both Bellator and PFL have confirmed discussions are underway. There are even claims being touted that a deal could be struck in the ensuing weeks. It’s unclear what future Bellator will face, but Chandler, once the poster boy for the second leading MMA promotion, confessed it would be a melancholic moment for him when it finally ends.
“There certainly is [an emotional attachment],” Chandler disclosed during The MMA Hour interview. In spite of his nature to set his sights on what lies ahead and his lack of interest in past events, he conceded that his absence wouldn’t be felt if not for his previous bouts in Bellator. He went on to mention how deeply touched he was when Scott Coker, the president of Bellator, personally invited him to attend Bellator 300 that weekend. Chandler expressed his sense of nostalgia as he recalled his fruitful past with the organization, recalling fondly his times working alongside the likes of Mike Kogan, Rich Chou, and even Bjorn Rebney when they were part of it. He admitted his journey at Bellator has seen some highs and lows, but the experience was invaluable as it taught him a great deal about himself and the industry.
Looking back at his career, Chandler takes pride in the significant part he played in shaping Bellator’s identity. Having joined the promotion only three fights into his MMA career, he has a comprehensive history with the organization, with 23 matches and three lightweight titles under his belt. His famous rivalries with other fighters like Eddie Alvarez, Will Brooks, and the Pitbull brothers made for some of the most memorable matches in Bellator’s history. On completing his term with Bellator in 2020, Chandler moved to UFC. He swiftly made his mark, becoming one of the most thrilling fighters and winning four “Performance of the Night” bonuses in five matches, along with the Fight of the Year award in 2021 for his face-off with Justin Gaethje at UFC 268. Chandler is now set to face off against Conor McGregor in the cage in 2024.