Michael Chandler acknowledges that the perception of him as a cheater in the UFC is difficult to accept. However, he maintains a strong sense of self-awareness and integrity.
Chandler is scheduled to compete this Saturday in the co-main event of UFC 314 in Miami, facing Paddy Pimblett in a five-round match. Following his losses at Madison Square Garden to Dustin Poirier and Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, the former Bellator champion has faced accusations of cheating.
Leading up to this significant lightweight fight, Chandler was questioned about these allegations.
“The narrative is indeed tough,” Chandler admitted in an interview. “People who don`t truly know me might misjudge my character based on what they see in the public eye. There`s a suspicion that my on-camera persona differs from my true self. Such accusations are inevitable.”
“But I am confident in who I am at my core. I strive to act ethically, treat others respectfully, and conduct myself with honor. Therefore, the cheating narrative is personally challenging, yet I understand it’s part of public opinion.”
Chandler’s UFC record stands at 2-4 across six fights, though he has earned a bonus in five of these appearances. “Iron” Chandler is seeking his first victory in almost three years as he prepares for his upcoming 2025 fight.
In his most recent fight, Chandler lost a decision to Oliveira in a five-round rematch last November, despite a near comeback in the final round. Oliveira withstood Chandler`s attacks, which included strikes that some believed were illegally aimed at the back of Oliveira`s head. Referee Keith Peterson issued no warnings during the bout.
Nevertheless, the cheating narrative resurfaced.
“Did I grab Dustin Poirier’s mouthpiece? Yes, because I momentarily mistook it for his chin,” Chandler explained. “I’ve already addressed this incident. In fights, unintentional actions occur. Fighters might grab the cage or get fingers caught in gloves. These are fight dynamics.”
“In the Oliveira fight, Charles Oliveira’s chin pressed so deeply into my eye socket that I feared blindness, which is an illegal eye gouge. He also grabbed my gloves while attempting a choke. These situations arise in the octagon. I would never label Charles Oliveira a cheater. His body is reacting instinctively in a fight-or-flight mode. Things happen. So, the cheating accusation is a difficult one to accept.”
Earlier in the fight week, Pimblett addressed the cheating claims, stating that it`s the referee`s responsibility to intervene if rules are broken. He also mentioned Poirier’s prior comment about biting Chandler’s fingers had he not been wearing a mouthguard during their UFC 281 fight.
Chandler appreciated Pimblett’s lighter approach to the narrative. However, he noted that not all lightweights have reacted similarly.
“I respect Paddy for not exaggerating the situation,” Chandler stated. “I see it as a weakness to accuse someone of cheating. Justin Gaethje’s reaction surprised me most. For a fighter as tough as Justin Gaethje to call me a cheater felt unwarranted.”
“Regardless, various incidents happen during fights. Fans won’t always approve of every action. In fact, fans often disapprove anyway, so it’s not overly significant. I operate within what I deem necessary during a fight, and I expect the referee to intervene if I cross a line. Many actions in the octagon are subconscious, and it’s the referee’s role to regulate them.”
“We will see how these next fights unfold.”
