Michael Chandler is back in the win column for the first time in more than three years. The UFC lightweight contender last tasted victory in May 2022, when he famously front-kick knocked out Tony Ferguson at UFC 274. Since then, losses to Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira and Paddy Pimblett had stalled his momentum.
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 star and accomplished collegiate wrestler Chad Mendes, Chandler used his size, strength and speed to secure a 4–1 win in the main event.
Afterward, “Iron Mike” issued a bold callout to Olympic gold medalist Jordan Burroughs — a wrestler who beat him twice back in 2009.
“Since 2009, there was a guy from the Midwest who beat me a couple times, and I haven’t gotten him off my mind,” Chandler said. “Jordan Burroughs, this ain’t 2009! I’m bigger, faster, stronger, and more dangerous. Jump in the RAF ring with me, if you dare.”
What’s next for Chandler in the UFC?
Chandler’s career stalled as he waited for a long-promised fight with Conor McGregor. The two coached The Ultimate Fighter in 2023 and were expected to face off afterward, yet two years later the matchup remains in limbo.
Both fighters have expressed interest in finally settling things at the UFC’s planned White House event in June 2026 — a historic card UFC CEO Dana White will begin organizing in February.
Until then, Chandler intends to stay active in RAF competition while keeping his wrestling sharp as he waits for his next move inside the Octagon.
