Dustin Poirier believes Michael Chandler may be nearing the end of his fighting career. Reflecting on his longtime rival’s recent struggles, the former interim UFC lightweight champion suggested that the damage Chandler has accumulated over the years could be a sign that it’s time to walk away from the sport.
Although the two have shared the Octagon in a memorable battle, Poirier stressed that his comments come from a place of respect rather than personal animosity.
Poirier wonders what Chandler is still chasing
Speaking on the Deep Waters podcast, Poirier said he no longer sees a reason for Chandler to continue competing.
“With all due respect, we buried the hatchet and shook hands.”
“But Michael Chandler, what are we doing?”
Poirier retired from MMA in 2025 despite being younger than Chandler. After falling short in his BMF title fight against Max Holloway, he decided to walk away from the sport. He previously cited concerns about his long-term health and the lack of a realistic path to another UFC championship.
Chandler, now 40, has dropped four straight fights, his latest fight being against Mauricio Ruffy. Three of those losses ended by stoppage. Over his last seven appearances, he has managed just one victory.
Move to welterweight raises concerns
Poirier also addressed reports that Chandler could be considering a move from lightweight to welterweight. He questioned whether fighting larger opponents would benefit a veteran who has already taken significant damage.
“I saw a thing, I don’t know if this is official news, but he said he might move up to welterweight.”
He then explained why he believes the move would be risky.
“If 155ers are stopping you and you’re taking all this damage, what are 170ers going to do?”
Chandler’s most recent appearance came at UFC Freedom 250 at the White House in June, where he suffered a first-round TKO loss to Brazil’s Mauricio Ruffy. While many fans speculated that the defeat could be his final fight, Chandler has not announced his retirement and has not publicly suggested he plans to end his career.