Dustin Poirier backs rival Michael Chandler to stop hype train Paddy Pimblett: “Go heavy on money”

UFC lightweight veteran Dustin Poirier reacts to the upcoming fight between Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett.


Dustin Poirier backs rival Michael Chandler to stop hype train Paddy Pimblett: “Go heavy on money”

Dustin Poirier predicts Michael Chandler winning against Paddy Pimblett (Image via Imago/UFC)

American fighter Michael Chandler and Scouser Paddy Pimblett are two of the most entertaining personalities in the UFC lightweight division. Given their prominence in the promotion, both Chandler and Pimblett are scheduled to face each other in a few weeks. Ahead of that, UFC lightweight veteran Dustin Poirier shared his thoughts on the upcoming fight.

A few days ago, UFC CEO Dana White announced the matchups for UFC 314 on his social media accounts. The fourth UFC Pay-Per-View event of the year is set to take place in Miami, featuring Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett in the co-main event. Recently, following the announcement, Dustin Poirier responded to a question about his preference for the winner between Chandler and Pimblett.

Even though he’s a b**ch, Chandler all day go heavy on the money.

Dustin Poirier via X
YouTube video

Interestingly, Poirier and Chandler have expressed their differences and exchanged harsh remarks against each other on multiple occasions. However, their heated animosity intensified after their fight. In that bout, Poirier utilized his cardio Chandler, securing a victory with a rear-naked choke submission. Despite the existing tension between them, Poirier somewhat buried the hatchet against Chandler.

FS Video

Recently, Poirier engaged in a heated exchange with Pimblett, similar to his previous back-and-forth with Chandler. After calling for a retirement fight in the UFC, the ‘Diamond’ appeared to dismiss the idea of facing rising contenders in the division. In response, Pimblett took a few shots at the seasoned veteran. This could be one of the reasons why Poirier seems reluctant to favor the Scouser against Chandler.

Michael Chandler promises an early-round finish against Paddy Pimblett

Both Paddy Pimblett and Michael Chandler began their UFC careers in 2021. However, while Pimblett’s journey is flawless, Chandler’s remain marked by ups and downs. In his most recent fight, the American lost to Charles Oliveira by unanimous decision. Meanwhile, Pimblett has continued to enhance his reputation within the promotion.

Michael Chandler previews his matchup against Paddy Pimblett
Michael Chandler previews his matchup against Paddy Pimblett (Image via Daily Express/Instagram)

Chandler has repeatedly caught the attention of the UFC community leading up to his scheduled fights. While the American fighter has consistently vowed to deliver brutal defeats to his opponents, he has sometimes fallen short of those promises. With his matchup against Pimblett now announced, Chandler recently shared his thoughts on the upcoming fight and outlined his mindset.

It’s a bad matchup stylistically for him (Paddy Pimblett)… I’m gonna land a right hand or a left hook and put his lights out within the first couple rounds.

Michael Chandler via ESPN MMA

Chandler emphasized the differences between his fighting style and Pimblett’s. Although he has a background in NCAA Division I wrestling, the American fighter prefers to engage in stand-up battles. In contrast, Pimblett fully utilizes his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills. The Scouser’s most recent fight against Bobby ‘King’ Green was an impressive display of his abilities.

Related: Michael Chandler Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House