It’s official! UFC 314 will feature the highly anticipated fight between Michael Chandler, former Bellator featherweight champion and Paddy “The Baddy”, former Cage Warriors lightweight champ.
It’s official. After months of speculation, and after hints on social media were dropped by various people. Chandler and Pimblett are set to fight in the 155-pound co-main bout of UFC 314. The event will take place on April 12 at the Kaseya Center, Miami.
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Pimblett faces the greatest test of his promising career. The 22-3-year old former Cage Warriors 145-pound champion has made quite a name in UFC light weight division by winning his first six bouts.
His most recent victory came against veteran Bobby Green at UFC 304 in Manchester in October, where Pimblett secured a dominant first round submission – becoming the first to submit “King” in the UFC and showcasing his ever-evolving skillset at the highest level of mixed martial arts. Pimblett had previously racked up wins over Tony Ferguson, Jared Gordon and Jordan Leavitt.
Michael Chandler, however, represents a step-up in the competition. Chandler is a Bellator lightweight three-time champion, with a 23-9 record. He has been a fan favorite in the UFC ever since his debut, in January 2021.
Chandler’s desire to fight to the death has led to many thrilling victories for him, such as finishing Dan Hooker twice and Tony Ferguson. But it also has caused him to lose to high-level competition, like Charles Oliveira and Justin Gaethje. Despite this record, those wars inside the Octagon have proven his durability and that he is one of the most exciting fighters in the division – something the fans love.
Chandler’s thrilling fighting style earned him five UFC bonus payments in his six UFC matches. Chandler won two Performance of the Night Awards and three Fight of the Night Awards.
Michael Chandler is now set to face Paddy Pimblett on 12 April in Miami in what will be an exciting lightweight match. The UFC’s lightweight championship could be on the line for either fighter later in this year. This is a highly-charged fight.