UFC icon Dustin Poirier believes Michael Chandler should seriously consider retirement instead of pursuing a move to the welterweight division.
Speaking recently on the Deep Waters podcast, Poirier reacted to reports suggesting Chandler could move up to 170 pounds following a difficult run at lightweight. While acknowledging that the two have put their rivalry behind them, Poirier questioned the logic behind Chandler continuing his fighting career.
“With all due respect, we’ve buried the hatchet and shook hands, but Michael Chandler, what are you doing?”
‘The Diamond‘ then expanded on his comments, citing Chandler’s recent struggles inside the Octagon.
“I’m just jumping back in about retirement. That just came to my mind because… he definitely should retire. I saw a thing say—I don’t know if this is official news—but he said he might move up to welterweight. If 155ers are stopping you and you’re taking all this damage, what do you think 170 is going to do?”
Check out Dustin Poirier’s comments about Michael Chandler below:
Michael Chandler has struggled in recent years
Michael Chandler, 40, remains one of the UFC’s most entertaining fighters, but his recent results have raised questions regarding his future.
Since joining the UFC in 2021, the former Bellator champion has delivered several memorable performances against elite competition, including Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje, and Dustin Poirier. However, those fights have also resulted in significant damage.
‘Iron’ has lost six of his last seven bouts and is currently riding a four-fight losing streak. Despite his willingness to fight the best in the world, his aggressive style has often left him on the wrong end of brutal exchanges.
Poirier knows exactly how dangerous Chandler can be, having defeated him via third-round submission at UFC 281 in one of the most action-packed fights of 2022.
The former interim lightweight champion’s comments appear to stem from concern rather than animosity, especially after the two fighters reconciled following years of tension.
While Chandler has not officially confirmed a move to welterweight, speculation regarding his next step continues to grow.
For Poirier, however, the answer is clear. Given Chandler’s age, recent results, and the punishment he has absorbed throughout his career, he believes retirement may be the best option for the former Bellator champion.
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