Michael Chandler ‘humbled by the opportunity’ to fight in the UFC

Photo by Jun Sato/WireImage

Michael Chandler has released his first statement since signing with the UFC.

Michael Chandler has finally signed with the UFC and is humbled by the opportunity to compete in MMA’s biggest organization.

The former three-time Bellator lightweight champion, who holds win over former UFC titleholders Eddie Alvarez and Benson Henderson, released a statement on social media shortly after signing with the premiere fight promotion on Thursday.

“Humbled by the opportunity. Galvanized by the road we took. Can’t wait to put on a show for you guys. To my fans, thank you for being with me on this journey. And if you just started with us…pull your hat down tight because we only know one speed! See you at the top!” Chandler posted on Instagram.

Chandler was offered to fight Dustin Poirier in the UFC 254 co-main event but ‘The Diamond’ reportedly turned it down, citing issues with fighter pay and ‘loyalty’ to Tony Ferguson. Chandler will instead serve as a backup for Khabib Nurmagomedov and Justin Gaethje, who are expected to collide in a lightweight title unification bout in the UFC 254 main event on Oct. 24 at Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

Chandler, 34, last fought in August, when he KO’d Benson Henderson in the Bellator 243 main event.