Former Bellator MMA lightweight champion ‘Iron’ Michael Chandler will make his much anticipated UFC debut later this month. Chandler will fight Dan Hooker in the co-main event of UFC 257 on January 23.

In a recent interview with Brett Okamoto of ESPN MMA, Chandler revealed he didn’t want to wait any longer for other opponents, so he agreed to fight no.6 ranked Dan Hooker.

“We don’t know what Justin Gaethje is gonna do. Justin Gaethje had the opportunity to fight me. He goes out there and fights little old me, he gets that win that he needed, and then he is next in line for the title. But instead, he wants to sit out and wait,” said Chandler.

“I was not gonna wait. That was the biggest thing. I could’ve said no, I’m not gonna fight Dan Hooker because he is ranked no.6. So, what do I do? I just sit around and wait? I can’t just keep waiting. I don’t wanna keep waiting.

“I’ve not been waiting by my own decision making. I’ve been waiting because guys haven’t said yes. Dates haven’t lined up. And now January 23, Dan Hooker is the night that I make my UFC debut,” said ‘Iron.’

Michael Chandler will look to make his first opportunity count

Tony Ferguson was Chandler’s first choice as an opponent for his UFC debut. But Dan Hooker is more than capable of turn Chandler’s fairytale debut into a nightmare. And he acknowledges that, too.

With McGregor and Poirier fighting in the main event, there will be eyes on Chandler. He can certainly set up a potential big fight next if he manages to dispatch Hooker impressively.

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Chandler is an experienced veteran with a great skillset. So, he will be looking to make the best use of his arsenal and put up a showcase performance for the fans.