Michael Chandler is back in the win column for the first time in more than three years. The UFC lightweight contender, who last won in May 2022 with a front-kick knockout of Tony Ferguson, had since endured losses to Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira and Paddy Pimblett.
On Saturday night at RAF03 in Chicago, Chandler returned to his wrestling roots in Real American Freestyle (RAF), a new unscripted pro-wrestling league. Facing former UFC fighter and accomplished collegiate wrestler Chad Mendes, Chandler used his size, speed and power to secure a 4–1 victory in the main event.
After the win, he immediately called out Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs, a rival who beat him twice during their college careers.
“Jordan Burroughs, this ain’t 2009!” Chandler declared. “I’m bigger, I’m faster, I’m stronger, I’m more dangerous! Jump in the RAF ring with me, if you dare.”
Chandler’s MMA career stalled while waiting for a long-delayed fight with Conor McGregor. The pair coached opposing teams on The Ultimate Fighter in 2023, but their planned bout has yet to materialise. Both fighters still hope to compete at the UFC’s planned White House event in June 2026, though final decisions won’t be made until UFC CEO Dana White begins building the card early next year.
Until then, Chandler plans to stay active and sharpen his wrestling skills in RAF while awaiting clarity on his UFC future.
