Former Bellator Lightweight Champion Michael Chandler will be sticking around with the organization for a while longer, as it was announced on Friday that he’s signed a new contract extension.
“Michael Chandler is synonymous with our brand and doubles as an incredibly talented and exciting mixed martial artist,” said Bellator President Scott Coker in a press release. “Not every fighter or free agent aligns with our future plans, but when looking at Chandler’s resume, inking him to a long-term extension was a no-brainer. I look forward to getting him back in action as soon as possible.”
Added Chandler, “I’m ecstatic to continue my career with Scott Coker and Bellator MMA. It’s obvious that good things are continuing to happen for this promotion and it’s correlating to big opportunities for myself as well. I can’t wait to get back in action and test myself against some of these new guys coming in and move back up through the ranks. As always, my eyes are on that belt, and it will be back around my waist soon.”
Chandler has fought 14 times in the Bellator cage, winning 11 of them. His run includes two of Bellator’s best ever fights in his split series against Eddie Alvarez, and he’s won two straight fights since back to back losses against current champion Will Brooks.
Penick’s Analysis: It makes sense for Chandler at this point more than his last extension, and he’ll continue to be one of the faces of the organization in one of its best divisions. With Benson Henderson now in the mix at both lightweight and welterweight, Chandler’s absolutely one of the names he’s likely to meet, and there remains unfinished business for him against Brooks.
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