Michael “Iron”Chandler

Michael Chandler is an American mixed martial artist competing in UFC’s lightweight division as of September 13, 2026. Known as “Iron,” he was born April 24, 1986, in High Ridge, Missouri. The UFC lists him at 5 feet 8 inches, identifies wrestling as his fighting style, and lists Kill Cliff FC as his training home. Chandler began his professional MMA career in 2009 and made his Octagon debut on January 23, 2021, finishing Dan Hooker at UFC 257.

Before MMA, Chandler wrestled for the University of Missouri. He was a four-time NCAA qualifier, earned Division I All-America honors in 2009, and completed his collegiate career as a 157-pound wrestler. His MMA approach reflects that background: he pairs pressure wrestling and takedown threats with explosive, hook-centered power striking and an aggressive, action-oriented pace.

Chandler established himself as a leading lightweight during his Bellator run, where the UFC credits him as a three-time Bellator world champion. In the UFC, he challenged Charles Oliveira for the vacant lightweight title at UFC 262 in May 2021 and has faced prominent contenders including Justin Gaethje, Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveira and Paddy Pimblett. UFC’s current athlete page lists Chandler as active and records his most recent appearance against Mauricio Ruffy on June 14, 2026.