Aaron Rodgers wild blackout retreat is a big ‘No No’ for UFC superstar Michael Chandler

UFC lightweight fighter Michael Chandler shares his neutral reaction upon learning about Aaron Rodgers' isolation and blackout retreat.


Aaron Rodgers wild blackout retreat is a big ‘No No’ for UFC superstar Michael Chandler

Michael Chandler discusses Aaron Rodgers' isolation training regime (Image via Athlon Sports/UFC)

NFL veteran and New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers is often considered one of the most controversial figures in the American football community. In addition to his controversial reputation, Rodgers has garnered attention over the years for his unique training routines. Recently, UFC lightweight star Michael Chandler shared some insights about Rodgers’ training regimes.

The #7 ranked UFC lightweight fighter, Michael Chandler, recently participated in an interview on MMA coach Tim Welch’s YouTube channel. During the interview, Chandler explored a variety of intriguing topics, including updates on his upcoming fights and various rumors circulating in the UFC community. Notably, he and Welch also discussed NFL veteran Aaron Rodgers’ unconventional training methods.

He’s battled through a lot and then these last couple of years, him getting demonized for the whole covid vaccine and stuff you know. He’s been thrown into a bunch of hot water with a bunch of stuff going after him so it’s a no surprise that he’s kind of going outside of kind of your modern training… But I don’t know if I could do the sleep or not the sleep but the blackout sound and light deprivation stuff man.

Michael Chandler via Red Hawk Recap 171 (Check from 34:39)
YouTube video

When Rodgers was playing for the Green Bay Packers, he went into four days of continuous isolation from the outside world. During this time, the four-time NFL MVP had no access to electricity, distractions, or anything else. He took the opportunity to contemplate his life. After this experience, Rodgers emerged with a different perspective and mentioned on multiple occasions how effective this remedy was for him.

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However, Chandler seems unfazed by this approach and has stated that he could never engage in such unique mental therapy procedures or training regimens. Interestingly, within the UFC community, multiple fighters often resort to unconventional methods to prepare for big fights. A notable example is Jiri Prochazka, who went on a similar blackout retreat as the New York Jets quarterback.

As for Chandler, the UFC lightweight fighter follows intense training and workout routines. Over the years, the UFC community has seen the American fighter demonstrate his tough and demanding training sessions. However, in addition to these rigorous workouts, Chandler also participates in mild rehabilitation sessions, which he is currently undergoing.

Michael Chandler discusses his current training and workout routine

‘Iron’ Michael Chandler is currently one of the most exciting strikers in the UFC lightweight division. Although he entered the promotion with strong momentum, Chandler is now facing challenges in gaining traction. Specifically, the American fighter is on a two-fight losing streak, having recently lost to former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 309.

Michael Chandler fights against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309
Michael Chandler fights against Charles Oliveira at UFC 309 (Image via MMA Fighting)

Interestingly, Chandler had a significant amount of time—over two years—to prepare for his battle against Oliveira. During this lengthy gap, he frequently shared intense workout videos and sparring clips. However, he was unable to translate that hard work into success during the rematch at UFC 309. Following that defeat, Chandler revealed that he is currently undergoing rehabilitation.

I’ve really been here rehab and I got a great rehab guy. He’s actually been my bodywork guy and then we do a little bit of PT in the past but I need some specific PT stuff that we’re doing right now. We did a two-hour session today. I’m doing that three days a week right now, plus doing body work, plus the red light, plus the hypermax oxygen… all that stuff.

Michael Chandler via Red Hawk Recap 171 (Check from 25:20)

Following his defeat at UFC 309, Chandler quickly shared the injuries he sustained during the fight. The American fighter described it as one of the most painful experiences he has ever endured in his MMA career. This could be one of the reasons why Chandler has chosen to pursue rehabilitation therapy.

Related: Michael Chandler Wife: Who is Iron Mike’s better half?