Not that the division needs it, but perhaps the best aspect of Chandler’s entrance into the UFC is that he’s yet another fighter who – probably, depending on this fight – figures to factor into the elite title picture at 155 pounds. He has already scored wins over former UFC lightweight champions Benson Henderson and Eddie Alvarez, so there’s a strong chance he has a wrench to throw into the big picture.
Chandler’s first steps into the Octagon have been a long time coming and long-awaited for him. It is something he is enjoying right now, but there’s an understanding that to achieve the goals he sets for himself in the Octagon, it begins at UFC 257 against Dan Hooker.
“I do not take this blessing and this life I’ve been given lightly,” Chandler said. “I believe that I was put on this earth to do exactly what I’m doing, and I found my calling. I found my purpose, and if I can go out there, put out a great performance, inspire and motivate people with my performance, then I’m doing exactly what God has called me to do, so it’s always gratitude when I’m headed to that cage. Once that cage door closes, it’s gratitude up until that bell rings. Once that bell rings, you flip that switch. You get into that flow state. You get into right where you need to be, and sometimes it’s to throw caution to the wind. Sometimes, it’s be a little bit more reserved, but for the most part, I’m always coming forward.”
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