Bussin' With The Boys Best of the Bus: Michael Chandler On The Emotions Of Getting In The Octagon
Sep 20, 2025
Michael Chandler, a three-time Bellator lightweight world champion and top UFC fighter, shares the raw emotions of his triumphant return to the Octagon after over two years. He recounts the physical toll of his electrifying fight against Charles Oliveira, how adrenaline affected his mindset, and the strategies he wished he had adjusted during the battle. Chandler dives into each round's key moments, reflecting on what it felt like to push through pain, and hints at his next career moves, including potential matchups with big names like Conor McGregor.
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Emotional Return To The Octagon
- Michael Chandler described walking back into the arena after two years and feeling tearful and full of emotion.
- He said touching the cage and canvas for the first time in two years brought senses and memories rushing back.
Octagon Moment Triggers The Shift
- Chandler said the fight truly begins once the cage door closes and Bruce enters the ring.
- He explained that presence shifts into performance as training and instinct take over.
Planned Composure Over Reckless Aggression
- Chandler intentionally fought more composed and strategic in this return, letting rounds progress instead of forcing finishes.
- He admitted conceding early positions to save energy for later rounds.