Michael Chandler highlights why he's picking Justin Gaethje to beat Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250

Michael Chandler has weighed in on the much-awaited UFC title clash between undefeated Georgian-Spaniard MMA star Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje. In stark contrast to many fans and experts, Chandler has picked his fellow American fighter to defeat Topuria. 

Presently, Chandler is booked to take on Brazil's Mauricio Ruffy in a lightweight matchup at the star-studded UFC Freedom 250 event. The MMA fight card is being promoted as a part of the celebrations of the 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence. 

Well, the card will be headlined by a UFC lightweight title unification fight between reigning lightweight titlist Topuria and interim lightweight champ Gaethje. The UFC Freedom 250 event will transpire at the White House in Washington, D.C., on June 14. 

Michael Chandler foresees Justin Gaethje defeating Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250

Michael Chandler recently spoke to MMA Junkie's Mike Bohn and was asked for his prediction about who'll win the Topuria-Gaethje UFC Freedom 250 headlining match. Chandler responded by suggesting that he and Gaethje have developed a friendship.

Alluding to Gaethje's and his humble backgrounds and hardworking parents, "Iron" stated: 

"Oh, man. I mean, my heart says Justin. You know, he and I have become friendly over the last couple years. We're cut from the same cloth -- wrestlers, college wrestlers, hardworking mom and dad." 

Picking Gaethje to win, the veteran MMA fighter said, "Ilia Topuria is just about as unbeatable as we have seen in a very long time. But with that being said, nobody stays undefeated in this sport." 

He continued, "And if anybody has the ability to knock off Ilia Topuria, take his '0', take his undefeated streak, take his belt, it's Justin Gaethje --especially, with this much on the line. On America's birthday. On the 250th anniversary of this great nation of ours. I'm leaning towards Gaethje. I think he's going to get the job done." 

 

Watch Michael Chandler expound upon his pick for Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje below (*comments at the 12:08-minute mark of the video): 

Michael Chandler and Justin Gaethje clashed in a three-round war inside the octagon

Juxtaposing Michael Chandler and Justin Gaethje's aforementioned friendship with their history inside the octagon serves as a reminder about how much the dynamics between them have changed. 

They've clashed against one another once in a lightweight MMA bout at UFC 268 back in November 2021. "The Highlight" emerged victorious via unanimous decision in that matchup, but Chandler also put on a gritty performance in a losing effort. 

Their three-round war elicited considerable laudation from combat sports experts and fans. Gaethje and Chandler notably earned FOTN (Fight of the Night) honors for their incredible showing. 

Nevertheless, it took a while before the apparent animosity between the two veteran lightweights faded away and gave way to the bond of adulation and respect that Chandler has now expressed for Gaethje. Moreover, as seen in an episode of UFC Connected earlier this year, the two fighters even played golf together. 

 

Check out Michael Chandler and Justin Gaethje's golf session below: