Eddie Alvarez and Michael Chandler have a shared history made famous by their intense rivalry in Bellator, where they waged two unforgettable title bouts against each other. Both fighters are respected for their skills, but perhaps there’s an unspoken difference in their trajectories, particularly since Chandler’s move to the UFC in 2021. While Alvarez seized the opportunity in the UFC and captured gold, Chandler’s journey has been tumultuous, leaving fans and critics alike questioning the true extent of his potential.
Since joining the UFC, Chandler has struggled to find his footing, posting a record of 2-4. His fights have undoubtedly enthralled spectators, showcasing the kind of grit and tenacity fans expect from a top competitor. Nonetheless, Alvarez sees a disconnect between Chandler’s capabilities and his execution inside the octagon. Alvarez is particularly frustrated because he believes Chandler possesses a versatile skill set that he fails to leverage during his bouts.
Alvarez points out that while Chandler has the tools to become a UFC champion, such as his elite wrestling ability, he has not fully utilized them in his recent fights. Alvarez states, “I think it’s more of him tweaking the way he fights and using the weapons that he has,” highlighting the insistence that Chandler needs to refine his approach rather than simply relying on his striking game. The lack of this strategy not only hampers Chandler’s performance but also disappoints those who recognize the depth of his talent.
From Alvarez’s vantage point, the frustration stems from a deep understanding of Chandler’s potential. Having faced him twice, Alvarez has witnessed firsthand the champion’s spirit that Chandler possesses. This depth of insight shapes Alvarez’s criticism as he pushes for Chandler to explore his abilities thoroughly. “He just doesn’t use them, and it’s frustrating for me to watch…” says Alvarez, emphasizing that this isn’t merely a critique but a plea from a former competitor who wants to see Chandler succeed.
Alvarez believes that many fans share his frustration, anticipating exciting performances from Chandler that have yet to manifest consistently. The unpredictability of Chandler’s approach in the UFC raises the question: What factors are holding him back? Is it psychological? Tactical?
Despite the setbacks in Chandler’s UFC career, Alvarez foresees the possibility of reigniting their rivalry, albeit outside the octagon. Alvarez will soon be competing in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) and suggests that should Chandler face further losses, a shift to BKFC could be a viable option. The idea of settling their rivalry in a bare-knuckle format injects enthusiasm into the concept, bringing in the potential for a trilogy that fans long for.
Alvarez highlights that with “no gloves” involved, this matchup could reignite the fire of their earlier encounters, while also offering a fresh avenue for fighters transitioning from the UFC. The sport’s evolution and fans’ desire for thrilling matchups create an exciting landscape for such a possibility.
Michael Chandler’s journey in the UFC has not matched the expectations set by his skills and previous performances. Eddie Alvarez’s observations paint a picture of a fighter capable of greatness but struggling to harness his potential within the octagon. The real question remains: will Chandler adapt and rise to the challenge? Only time will tell, but the allure of a potential trilogy fight remains a tantalizing prospect for fans and fighters alike.