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UFC Lightweight Michael Chandler Goes After ‘Out of Shape’ Nate Diaz

Published 01/16/2021, 5:13 AM EST

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UFC lightweight Michael Chandler fired heavy artillery towards Stockton’s son Nate Diaz in a recent Instagram live fan session. A fan asked ‘Iron’ Chandler to elaborate on his views on possibly fighting Diaz and Chandler didn’t hold back. Chiefly, the former Bellator lightweight champion will make his long-awaited debut at UFC 257 on Jan 23, 2021.

Michael Chandler will take on Dan Hooker in the co-main event of the card headlined by Conor McGregor and Dustin Poirier. Moreover, he has come in as one of the most highly-touted free agents to enter into the UFC recently. Chandler comes in for his debut on a card that is sure to gain plenty of traction and will draw in eyeballs.

Michael Chandler goes after Nate Diaz

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Although the multiple time Bellator lightweight champion is focused on Hooker, he’s also excited about his UFC future. Not to mention, there’s plenty on the line in terms of high profile match-ups if he wins out over ‘The Hangman’. It’s clear that Chandler favors his fighting style over Diaz’s given his response to a fan.

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“There’s no doubt I would pick Nate Diaz up (and) slam him on his neck,” Chandler said. “That long, skinny, fat body, he’s out of shape, he hasn’t really fought much in the last few years. So, I’d be down with that. Midwest boy from High Ridge, Missouri, fighting the kid from Lodi, California, I would love that. So, we shall see.”

Fighting Nate Diaz would certainly be the most high-profile match-up that Chandler could secure for himself. However, Nate Diaz is definitely far removed from the title picture as it currently stands. What makes a fight against him so attractive, comes in with his ability to draw mass appeal from fans.

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Michael Chandler has already garnered a significant fanbase and his profile will grow exponentially with a win over Hooker. He’s certainly laid out fighting words for Diaz and time will tell whether the Stockton native will take the bait. UFC 257 at the Etihad arena will provide great clarity for the lightweight division looking at the co-main and main event features.

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Darryl Pinto

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.
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