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Julie Swerbinks
With Amex Gold, you get up to $100 back annually on eligible purchases at resi restaurants.
Michael Chandler
So party of two, right this way.
Julie Swerbinks
Is music to your ears. That's the powerful backing of American Express enrollment. Required terms apply. Learn more@american express.com with AmEx.
Dennis Black
Ever notice your dog slowing down and having health issues and wonder, what can I do to make them better? Well, my friend, add rough greens to your dog's food for 90 days and I guarantee you'll see changes that will amaze you. Greetings naturopathic doctor Dennis Black, inventor of ruffgreens here, and I invite you to give your pup the Ruffgreens 90 Day Challenge. In the first 30 days, you'll see shinier coats and increased energy. By day 60, your dog will have a stronger immune system, less shedding, improved joint function, all due to the live nutrients that you've added to their diet. And at 90 days, better digestion, reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and you may even have reduced their cancer risk. Fetch your dog a free Jumpstart trial bag today. Go to try rough greens.com use promo code Try rough. That's T R Y R U F F. Go to try rough greens.com use promo code try rough. You discover the shipping. You don't have to change your dog's food to improve your dog's health. Just add a scoop of ruff greens.
Greg Rosenthal
What's up everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101, free agents will have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcast.
Daniel Jeremiah
The championship is back in the bay for the first time in 40 years.
Steve Kerr
On the new limited podcast series Dub Dynasty, we hear from head coach Steve Kerr on how Steph Curry almost never even joined the Warriors.
Michael Chandler
In fact, I thought we had a draft day deal to end up getting.
Steve Kerr
Him to Phoenix for the entire behind the scenes story of Golden State's incredible 10 year run. Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
Julie Swerbinks
The Volume.
Daniel Jeremiah
Guys Michael Chandler so backstory, I was in there sleeping on the ground.
Michael Chandler
You were?
Daniel Jeremiah
Dude, that's bad.
Michael Chandler
No, it's all right.
Daniel Jeremiah
You walked up on me. I'm in the corner in full slumber.
Michael Chandler
Yeah, you gotta. You gotta get a little nap in when you can. I heard you took a red eye.
Daniel Jeremiah
Man, I took a red eye last night. Played golf in the morning. Big mistake.
Michael Chandler
What'd you get straight off the plane and go straight to the course?
Daniel Jeremiah
Dude, I landed at 7:45, grabbed my bag by 9, 10. I teeing off.
Michael Chandler
That's Savage. That's Savage material. You deserve a little nap. We're good.
Daniel Jeremiah
I'm tired, but I'm going to bed after this. But anytime I get a chance to talk to Michael Chandler, you know, I'm on it. Thank you for checking in with my brother. Appreciate it. Mike. Another big fight. This time it's a little different, right? Because before, it's usually big name guy. Right? This time, it seems like it's a younger guy, up and coming guy, guy that's trying to really make his name. We went to the decision to kind of reach back, right, like, and fight a guy that's below you in the rankings.
Michael Chandler
I think there's a responsibility. You know, at some point. I've had five fights in the ufc. Every single one of them, you know, it happened one other time. I fought Tony Ferguson, was ranked higher than him, but other than that, man, it's been first ballot hall of Famers I've been fighting, you know, and at some point, you know, you probably may have felt it in your career. Like, the fans are getting a little antsy, like, hey, you can't just sit around and cherry pick.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
And only fight guys ahead of you. Now, I never chose a fight. Maybe I picked a couple here and there, but, like, the UFC's always offered me fights. And then when this one came around, it's like, hey, Poirier had to fight Benoit St. Denis, beat him, and they got a title shot next. Yeah, yeah, forget that. And Gaethje had to do it with Fazeev. At some point, you got to fight someone who's ranked, you know, lower than you, and here we are.
Daniel Jeremiah
When did they. When did they come to you with this fight, though? Like, when did they come to you and say, hey, we have this idea, you versus Patty Pimblet. Because honestly, when you are a guy like you, that's not the easiest conversation. Because, like, I know you want the title fights now. You want the big fights. When they went to you with Patty Pimplett, were you originally like, ah, well.
Michael Chandler
Okay, no, no, because I. I mean, yeah, I said yes right away. I was like, hey, I like the idea. I like the. I like the name, I like the brand. I like the idea. I knew we would get to this point, and, yeah, this might be the most exciting, the most that people are most looking forward to on this card. Even though we have a title fight in the main event, this could be the people's main event in a lot of people.
Daniel Jeremiah
I've heard that somebody said that to me today.
Michael Chandler
Yeah. You know, so it's kind of like it's a big fight, and at some point it's like, hey, I'm coming off of a loss. You know, I had my opportunity. I beat Charles in November.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah. You fighting for the belt?
Michael Chandler
Fighting for the belt, Yeah. I didn't.
Daniel Jeremiah
I gotta.
Michael Chandler
I gotta fess up to that. I gotta pony up to that, and I gotta say, okay, okay, I'll fight Patty Pimblett. With that being said, it was brought to me in, like, December, January, but I needed to heal up a little bit. Need to do some pt, Some rehab after the last fight, because I hurt my leg in the last fight. So I'm good now. So I'm glad. I'm glad I said yes to the fight in April, and here we are.
Daniel Jeremiah
Getting to fight a guy like this. When you look at Patty Pimlet, right, for so long, since he got here, anytime these guys come with hype, everybody starts to wonder, when's he getting knocked off? When's he getting knocked off? This kid has stepped up at every opportunity, right? And most impressive was this fight against Bobby Green. So when you break down Patty Pimplett, I'm talking Michael Chandler, the fighter, but I'm talking about the analyst, the guy that can step outside of this thing and look at it for what it is. What do you see from this kid?
Michael Chandler
I mean, I see confidence first and foremost. He's confident in himself. He truly thinks. You know, he's been saying it in interviews, and I have other interviewers say, hey, Patty said this earlier. He believes he's going to walk through, he's going to beat you into. I mean, I want a guy who believes in himself.
Daniel Jeremiah
All right?
Michael Chandler
This is what we do. We've been competing with our hands whole life. Our whole life, right? So I want the toughest competition. I want the best. Paddy Pimblett on fight night. That being said, I mean, he's going to come out, he's going to throw wild punches, or at least that's what he's done against guys that he maybe wasn't intimidated by. I'm not saying he's intimidated by me, but he knows my track record. He knows I'm a dog in there, so we'll see if he does do that. And then on the ground, he's pretty slick. But his last fight was Bobby Green. No, you know, with all due respect, I'm better than that. I throw bigger punches. I will not get caught in those submissions. I think I'm better on the ground. I'm stronger on the ground. I'm a more strong human being. A strong body in there and a different presence than he's ever felt. I'm not saying he's gonna sink or swim. It remains to be seen, but he never felt the likes of me.
Daniel Jeremiah
Is there a. Is there a. Is there a world where your approach is a little different with this kid? Because the one thing that stood out to me when talking to the kid is in my research, I don't think Michael Chandler is as good a wrestler as everybody gives him credit for, because he's an All American. We think he's such a great wrestler. But I believe Charles Oliveira exposed that. And I think that I can take him down. I said, you think you're taking him down at his body? I said, maybe you could bear hug him and throw him to the ground. He goes, no, I could shoot a single. I go, you think you could shoot a single leg on Michael Chandler and take him down? He goes, yes, but those opportunities present themselves if you overextend yourself. Is there a world where you start a little slower? Yeah, right.
Michael Chandler
Maybe. You know, I mean, I think I started slower against Charles until something happened. Yeah, you start fighting first round, you know, and then. Then all of a sudden, my entire foundation was taken away from me. The whole 12 week, 10 week training camp I did was predicated upon a certain type of style. And then my body failed me in that. Yeah, in that point. And I found myself backing up, or I found myself. I mean, if you look in the fifth round, man, after I had Charles hurt, I threw a left hook and my left leg wasn't even on the ground because I wasn't putting any weight on it and did a complete 180. I hurt my leg in that first exchange, the first grappling exchange. But three months of rehab, PT multiple times a day, a couple days a week has got me back, and I'm good. So, yeah, it's unfortunate, but I was able to take a lot of things from the Charles fight, and I think things that the fans may not have seen and you don't really know unless you're actually in there. But I made some strides and I made some improvements mentally and spiritually, like, different as a competitor in that.
Daniel Jeremiah
Inside the fight.
Michael Chandler
Inside of the fight where I was like, okay, we're doing good. We're growing still. And if you're my age and doing as long as I have and I'm still growing, that's a good thing. And I think this fight is a perfect opportunity to show that even more. And we'll see. But there's a world where I'm calculated, but there's also a world where I go out there and knock him out.
Daniel Jeremiah
Cuz it. It would seem right. We've seen you hurt everybody you fight, and it seems as though this key. Patty's never been in there with anybody that hurts him. I think the key to this fight is making him feel uncomfortable. Do you guys. Did you guys pick up on that in the build?
Michael Chandler
Yeah, that's. That's kind of my goal at all times when I'm. When I'm fighting a guy. I mean, whether I'm fighting a guy like Gate you who loves to be in the firefighter, I'm fighting, you know, a poirier, putting pressure on him or fighting any of these guys. I mean, I want him to. It's 100% certainty he's never fought a guy like me. So there's that question mark. Right? So then once he gets in there, I want him to feel my presence and feel my pressure right away. Does he sink or swim? We'll find out. Now, that doesn't mean I'm going to go crazy wild and do some of the other stuff that I've done in other fights, but then again, maybe it does. We'll see.
Daniel Jeremiah
All right, guys, UFC 314 goes thousand this weekend from Miami, Florida. And once again, I'm partnering up with the DraftKings sportsbook to give all new customers a fantastic offer. Sign up using my promo code, DCTV. Bet only $5 or more and get 150 in bonus bets instantly. Look, we have a title fight between Lopez and Volkanovski. We also have the people's main event between Michael Chandler and Patty Pimlett. Guys, every single year, Miami puts on one of the best fight cards of the year. And the UFC loves to give all the action. So why don't you get in on that same action at the DraftKings sportsbook and show your knowledge for mixed martial arts and sports in general. So, once again, all new customers sign up using my promo code, DCTVbet, only $5 or more and get $150 in bonus bets instantly when you sign up at the DraftKings sportsbook, where the crown is yours.
Steve Kerr
Gambling problem. Call 1-800-GAMBLER in New York, call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY 467-369 in Conn. Help is available for problem gambling. Call 888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org Please play responsibly on behalf of Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Kansas, 21 and over. Age and eligibility varies by jurisdiction. Void In Ontario, new customers only. Bonus bets expire 168 hours after issuance. For additional terms and responsible gaming resources, see dkng Co Audio.
Julie Swerbinks
It's the last game of the season, and with amex, you can save time with card member entrances at select venues and go straight to the action so you every moment. That's the powerful backing of American Express. Terms apply. Learn more@americanexpress.com with AmEx.
Dennis Black
Ever notice your dog slowing down and having health issues and wonder, what can I do to make them better? Well, my friend, add rough greens to your dog's food for 90 days and I guarantee you'll see changes that will amaze you. Greetings naturopathic doctor Dennis Black, inventor of Ruff Greens here, and I invite you to give your pup the Ruffgreens 90 Day Challenge. In the first 30 days, you'll see shinier coats and increased energy. By day 60, your dog will have a stronger immune system, less shedding, improved joint function, all due to the live nutrients that you've added to their diet. And at 90 days, better digestion, reduced inflammation, improved heart health and you may even have reduced their cancer risk. Fetch your dog a free Jumpstart trial bag today. Go to try roughgreens.com use promo code try rough. That's T R Y R U F f go to try rough greens.com use promo code try rough. You just cover the shipping. You don't have to change your dog's food to improve your dog's health. Just add a scoop of rough greens.
Nate Thompson
Got a big idea, but not sure where to start? Shopify makes it easy. From stunning templates to AI tools that write your product descriptions and boost your marketing, Shopify helps you build, sell, and grow fast. It's trusted by millions, from startups to brands like Gymshark and Mattel, and with 24. 7 support, you're never on your own. Turn your dream into with Shopify. Start your $1 a month trial today at shopify.com Dax that's shopify.com. dax.
Julie Swerbinks
There's a type of soil in Mississippi called Yazoo clay. It's thick, burnt orange, and it's got a reputation. It's terrible, terrible dirt. Yazoo clay eats everything, so things that get buried there tend to stay buried until they're not. In 2012, construction crews at Mississippi's biggest hospital made a shocking discovery.
Dennis Black
7,000 bodies out there or more, all.
Julie Swerbinks
Former patients of the old state asylum, and nobody knew they were there.
Daniel Jeremiah
It was my family's mystery.
Julie Swerbinks
But in this corner of the south, it's not just the soil that keeps secrets. Nobody talks about it. Nobody has any information. When you peel back the layers of Mississippi's Yazoo clay, nothing's ever as simple as you think.
Michael Chandler
The story is much more complicated and nuanced than that.
Julie Swerbinks
I'm Larison Campbell. Listen to under yazukle on the iHeartRadio app, Apple podcast, or wherever you get your podcast.
Daniel Jeremiah
Speaking of your contemporaries, Poirier and all those guys, what is going on with Dustin Poirier? And I gotta tell you something about Justin Gaethje, though, about what he said, right? Because all, like, they're just kind of attacking you. Like, what is going on in that? And, like, why. When you guys don't have anything together, why do you think? Yeah, right now is the. The time that. That's. Because I saw a video, and Dustin Poirier seemed mad. But I'll tell you what Justin Gaethje told me when I. When you tell me what, what. What. What do you think's happening?
Michael Chandler
I don't know. I mean, I could care less, honestly. Yeah, it's one of those things where we're in the sport. We get asked questions and we give. We give answers on the fly and we talk about what we talk about. I'm not really that worried about it. I mean, I've been a guy who's been an outsider, an outcast here and there. I like to be well liked. I'm. I'm a guy who likes.
Daniel Jeremiah
You're a good dude.
Michael Chandler
Allegedly. We're good. No.
Daniel Jeremiah
Well, we haven't fought you like, the ones that haven't fought you, like, the people like us, right? It's like, you're good. So you want me to tell you what Justin Gaethje told me why I like you? Let me tell you this. I swear, this is his words, because I always. I've always liked you. And he goes, let me tell you why you like Chandler. Because I was like, what's up with you guys saying that about him and the way that he fights. He goes, how about this? He goes, I'll tell you why you like him. He goes, because you're like Michael Chandler, being that you're a competitor and such a competitor that you'll be willing to do anything to win. That's what Justin Gaethje told me. So I don't know that that's a compliment or an insult.
Michael Chandler
Well, I also.
Daniel Jeremiah
But that's what he said, I guess.
Michael Chandler
I mean. Well, here's the crazy thing is, like, what. What happened in that fight? The only thing that happened in that fight was when I threw a left, a left hook, right hand, and then there was a eye poke, and then the referee didn't stop, you know?
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
He said, you're like, dude, those things happen. And actually, here's the worst part about. About it. And I actually screen recorded on my phone, but I'm not. I'm not here to defend myself.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
And the Charles Oliveira fight, I hit him with the hard right hand. I post my hand on his face. There's a side on this where these two fingers are exposed, and there's a side angle on this where these three. And then all of a sudden he does this. And now everybody's like, oh, he poked.
Daniel Jeremiah
Him in the eye.
Michael Chandler
But it's just.
Daniel Jeremiah
What? It's.
Michael Chandler
Well, just because he's rubbing his eye doesn't mean I poked him in the eye. It's like, it's. There's video evidence of it. So there's. There's stuff like that. But you're also just like, dude, there's a referee in there.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
I've never had a point taken away. I'm like, I don't know.
Daniel Jeremiah
I just don't know. I just honestly don't know what's happening. I was like. I was like, well, what is going on? I don't know, because I said, well, maybe because they fought each other and these guys don't.
Michael Chandler
Yeah, well, I don't want to also.
Daniel Jeremiah
Like each other also. I mean, he said, you tried to knock him out after. The referee was like, I did.
Michael Chandler
Of course I did. Because the referee didn't stop us. If that's. If that's his. If that's what he's mad at me about. Why are you mad at me, dude? Like, the referee, Mike Beltran, of all people, who's got six foot long arms, was. Was nine feet away and said, and it looks like he does this.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
But I'm over there and he's nine feet away. And I'm like, dude, unless a referee.
Daniel Jeremiah
Is in the middle, you're taught, he's.
Michael Chandler
A wrestler, first of all. That's why I said it's a sign of weakness. I'm like, dude, you're a wrestler, dude, you're supposed to know. You wrestle until the whistle blows. Right. You fight until the reflection stops you. And he didn't stop. So you're just like, if that's cheating, I don't know what you want me to do. That's not. Is it the cheating, or is it the ref not doing his job? Yeah, so I don't know, man. We're fighting, dude. This is. This is combat sports. What are we even talking about here?
Daniel Jeremiah
Exactly. Yeah, so I was just kind of wondering, because it's like, it feels like as you're preparing for Patty Pimblett. Patty Pimblett's not saying these things. It's all the guys from your past. Yeah.
Michael Chandler
And I appreciate that.
Daniel Jeremiah
That are saying this.
Michael Chandler
And also, I mean, when you beat a guy, you want to see him do. Not as good as you after that. Yeah, well, hey, I beat him, so therefore, I should be here, and I should be here. And I think there's certain aspects of the sport that guys like Daniel Cormier probably, you know, had where they're like, I just keep on getting promoted, and I just keep on getting these big fights and great things keep happening and good things happen to good people and all these other things. But then there's other people are like, yeah, but I beat him. So why did you feel like this? Why am I.
Daniel Jeremiah
You know, Mike, you have had one of the funnest runs in the ufc. It hasn't come with the success that you would hope it had been. Is this one of those situations where it's a must win for Michael Chandler? Like, do you put that pressure on you? Like, hey, I feel this is me from the outside. You can tell me if you disagree. I feel like you've entered into that realm of existence where, because it's always fun, the result always doesn't matter as much as the feeling that the fans leave the fight with. So when Nate Diaz lost to Leon Edwards, he hit him with the 1, 2, and he pointed at him. It's like, well, Nate Diaz had that moment. But as a competitor, I know you the competitor. I don't know if you want to live in that area. Do you feel like this one, though, is, like, a must win?
Michael Chandler
Yeah, I don't want to live in that area, and I've. I've gone out there to try to win every single fight.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah.
Michael Chandler
And, yeah, I mean, I think it is. And my back's been up against the wall a couple of times. UFC debut, knocked out. Knocked out Dan Hooker. And I'm on this big run, and it's a UFC title fight, and there's, like, there's really not a lot to lose, and I lose that one, and then. But then I come back, and I'm back up against the wall against Tony Ferguson.
Daniel Jeremiah
Ferguson, Yep.
Michael Chandler
Fight highlight, KO of the year, sports center. Number one on sports center top 10. Like, these kinds of things, things happen. So something wells up inside me when, you know, when my back is up against the wall. And I think this is one of those fights. So that's why you got to buy the pay per view. You got to show up. And I will have people on the edge of their seats, if not standing up, because that's what I always do. Every single time I step into the Octagon.
Daniel Jeremiah
I saw that picture of you looking jacked and had a picture of Patty looking fat and said, explain to this person that this guy's favorite to be this guy. And you're like, this is exactly where I want to be. Right. Is it not like, fighters feel something when they are doubted? And you have to feel that right now, being that this is the next generation and that's the danger in those fights. Right. Because can't really lose to the next generation. Or that's almost a sign of. Okay, well, maybe it's like, coming to the end, right?
Michael Chandler
Yeah, yeah. I mean, I feel it, and it's. But it's fine. I mean, I've. I've. I don't know. I look at the sport differently in the sense where, like, I keep saying, it's like, it's not Patty Pimblett. It's a head, it's a torso, two arms and two legs. And I just. There's a soul in front of me, and I see targets in front of me, and. And I get after it. So, I mean, yeah, I agree there. Obviously, there's implications, negative implications, but there's also some very good, positive implications.
Daniel Jeremiah
Yeah. Yeah, positive.
Michael Chandler
This is a big fight. People's main event. Five rounds, co. Main event in Miami, Florida. This is. This is big, man. It's. It's exciting, and I'm excited to compete. I'm excited to go out and just do what I do, continue to get to do what I do.
Daniel Jeremiah
You know, guys, Michael Chandler and I are friends. We've always been friends. It's not always perfect. One time we got into an argument, we started with voice memos, then text messages, then phone calls. It was like very intense between Mike and I. So we do get after each other at times, but then most times we come back around to where we are right now. So Michael Chandler fights at UFC 314 this weekend against Patty Pimblett, looking to get back on the winning track and looking to really put a halt to all the momentum that Paddy Pimlet has. Guys, make sure you go to his YouTube channel like and subscribe. Set those reminders. It's fantastic. Also, make sure you tap into everything that he's doing. UFC 314 goes down this weekend. Casillas in an ESPN+ pay per view. Make sure you hit the buy button and always support Michael Chandler. Mike, thank you so much for checking in with me.
Michael Chandler
Appreciate it.
Daniel Jeremiah
Till next time, guys. Peace.
Dennis Black
Ever notice your dog slowing down and having health issues and wonder what can I do to make them better? Well, my friend, add rough greens to your dog's food for 90 days and I guarantee you'll see changes that will amaze you. Greetings Naturopathy Dr. Dennis Black, inventor of Rough greens here, and I invite you to give your pup the Rough Greens 90 Day Challenge. In the first 30 days, you'll see shinier coats and increased energy. By day 60, your dog will have a stronger immune system, less shedding, improved joint function, all due to the live nutrients that you've added to their diet. And at 90 days, better digestion, reduced inflammation, improved heart health, and you may even have reduced their cancer risk. Fetch your dog a free Jumpstart trial bag today. Go to try roughgreens.com use promo code Try rough. That's T R Y R U F F. Go to try rough greens.com use promo code Try rough. You just cover the shipping. You don't have to change your dog's food to improve your dog's health. Just add a scoop of rough greens.
Greg Rosenthal
What's up, everyone? It's Greg Rosenthal and I'm teaming up with the King of Spring, Daniel Jeremiah. He requires me to say that we're going to be bringing you 40s and free agents, the only podcast you'll need this NFL draft season. From DJs mock drafts to my top 101 free agents, we'll have it covered for you with all new episodes every Thursday keeping you up to date as we head to the NFL Draft. Listen to 40s and free agents on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
Daniel Jeremiah
The championship is back in the bay for the first time in 40 years.
Steve Kerr
On the new limited podcast series Dub Dynasty, we hear from head coach Steve Kerr on how Steph Curry almost never even joined the Warriors.
Michael Chandler
In fact, I thought we had a draft day deal to end up getting.
Steve Kerr
Him to Phoenix for the entire behind the scenes story of Golden State's incredible 10 year run. Listen to Dub Dynasty on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Julie Swerbinks
What's up everyone? Julie Swerbinks here along with former NHL player Nate Thompson.
Michael Chandler
We're doing a new podcast together. Here we go.
Julie Swerbinks
The name Energy Line with Nate and jsb.
Michael Chandler
Each week we'll get together and talk about hockey life. All topics are fair game, right?
Julie Swerbinks
Exactly. And you'll never know who will drop by to join us.
Michael Chandler
Julie is pretty well connected. She has text threads going that you wouldn't believe.
Julie Swerbinks
Listen to Energyline with Nate and jsb on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Episode: Daniel Cormier TV - Michael Chandler on Knocking Out Paddy Pimblett, Dustin Poirier BEEF
Release Date: April 12, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
In this episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd, host Daniel Jeremiah engages in a deep and candid conversation with UFC fighter Michael Chandler. The discussion centers around Chandler's upcoming fight against rising star Paddy Pimblett, the evolving dynamics within the UFC, and personal insights into Chandler's career trajectory. Throughout the episode, Chandler provides a transparent look into his mindset, preparation, and perspectives on his competitors.
The conversation begins with Chandler reflecting on his recent battles in the UFC, highlighting both his victories and setbacks.
Michael Chandler ([04:35]): "I think there's a responsibility. You know, at some point... you probably may have felt it in your career. Like, the fans are getting a little antsy, like, hey, you can't just sit around and cherry pick."
Chandler emphasizes the importance of continuously challenging higher-ranked opponents to satisfy fan expectations and maintain his standing within the division.
A significant portion of the discussion delves into Chandler's upcoming match with Paddy Pimblett. The dialogue explores the motivations behind taking this fight and the strategic elements Chandler intends to employ.
Daniel Jeremiah ([03:33]): "Another big fight. This time it's a little different, right? Because before, it's usually big name guy. Right? This time, it seems like it's a younger guy, up and coming guy..."
Michael Chandler ([04:36]): "I was like, hey, I like the idea. I like the name, I like the brand. I knew we would get to this point, and, yeah, this might be the most exciting, the most that people are most looking forward to on this card."
Chandler expresses enthusiasm about fighting Pimblett, recognizing the excitement and potential impact of the matchup on both fighters' careers.
Jeremiah seeks Chandler's expert analysis of Pimblett, aiming to understand his strengths and how Chandler plans to counter them.
Daniel Jeremiah ([05:31]): "When you break down Paddy Pimblett, I'm talking Michael Chandler, the fighter, but I'm talking about the analyst, the guy that can step outside of this thing and look at it for what it is. What do you see from this kid?"
Michael Chandler ([06:04]): "I see confidence first and foremost. He's confident in himself. He truly thinks... I want the toughest competition. I want the best."
Chandler commends Pimblett's self-belief and fighting prowess, acknowledging his ability to throw wild punches and his slick ground game. He contrasts Pimblett's skills with his own, emphasizing his superior punching power and ground strength.
Michael Chandler ([07:07]): "I throw bigger punches. I will not get caught in those submissions. I think I'm better on the ground. I'm stronger on the ground."
The discussion transitions into Chandler's strategic approach to tackling Pimblett in the Octagon, considering past experiences and lessons learned.
Michael Chandler ([09:03]): "Inside the fight where I was like, okay, we're doing good. We're growing still... I made some strides and I made some improvements mentally and spiritually, different as a competitor in that."
Chandler reflects on his previous fight against Charles Oliveira, where he faced physical setbacks, and how it has shaped his current preparation and mental fortitude.
Michael Chandler ([09:22]): "There’s a question mark. Right? So then once he gets in there, I want him to feel my presence and feel my pressure right away."
He aims to impose his will from the onset, making Pimblett uncomfortable to gain a psychological and physical advantage.
Jeremiah introduces topics beyond the upcoming fight, touching on tensions within the UFC, including the Beef between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje.
Daniel Jeremiah ([14:26]): "Speaking of your contemporaries, Poirier and all those guys, what is going on with Dustin Poirier? And I gotta tell you something about Justin Gaethje..."
Michael Chandler ([14:59]): "I don't know. I mean, I could care less, honestly... I'm a guy who likes to be well liked."
Chandler remains detached from the ongoing rivalries, focusing instead on his performance and relationships within the sport. He underscores the importance of maintaining professionalism despite external tensions.
The episode also highlights the personal relationship between Chandler and Jeremiah, showcasing their camaraderie and mutual respect despite occasional disagreements.
Daniel Jeremiah ([21:15]): "You know, guys, Michael Chandler and I are friends. We've always been friends. It’s not always perfect... but we do get after each other at times, but then most times we come back around to where we are right now."
This dynamic adds depth to their conversation, allowing listeners to appreciate the genuine connection that informs their discussions.
As the episode concludes, both Chandler and Jeremiah emphasize the significance of UFC 314, scheduled to take place in Miami, Florida. Chandler reiterates his commitment to delivering an electrifying performance that satisfies fans and advances his career.
Michael Chandler ([20:04]): "So that's why you got to buy the pay-per-view. You got to show up. And I will have people on the edge of their seats, if not standing up, because that's what I always do. Every single time I step into the Octagon."
Jeremiah encourages listeners to support Chandler by tuning into the event, highlighting the fight's potential to reinvigorate Chandler's momentum within the UFC.
This episode offers an in-depth look into Michael Chandler's mindset as he prepares to face Paddy Pimblett. Through candid dialogue, Chandler reveals his strategic approach, respect for his opponent, and dedication to overcoming challenges within the highly competitive UFC landscape. Listeners gain valuable insights into the complexities of fight preparation, athlete mentality, and the intricate relationships that shape the world of mixed martial arts.
Notable Quotes:
This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened while retaining the depth and nuances of the original conversation.