Michael Chandler Faces Criticism After UFC 309 Loss

Michael Chandler faced significant backlash following his recent loss to Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, where he was accused of using illegal tactics during the fight. Despite Oliveira's victory and claims of Chandler's rule-breaking, Chandler defended his actions, asserting that the referee made the right calls. Post-fight, Chandler revealed he is recovering from severe injuries, including swelling that left him in extreme pain, and described his ongoing recovery process. Analyst John McCarthy expressed concern that Chandler, at 38, may be on a downward trajectory similar to fellow fighter Tony Ferguson, who is struggling in the lightweight division. Former opponent Brent Primus also criticized Chandler's performance and labeled him a 'cheater,' reflecting a growing sentiment among fighters that Chandler's skills have diminished due to prolonged inactivity. This combination of physical setbacks and reputational damage raises questions about Chandler's future in the UFC.