Rumors have been circulating about a possible cancellation of the highly anticipated lightweight rematch between the two Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler at UFC 309.
However, renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani has dismissed these claims and stressed that the fight remains on schedule for November 16th.
Related
Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler 2 is still ongoing
Ariel Helwani says the fight is not in jeopardy despite rumors
In a video posted online, Helwani shared insights from his sources and stated the following:
“I reached out to Chandler's team and was told, 'News for them.'” I also reached out to a few other contacts and they shared the same sentiment. When there is a real cause for concern there are usually early warning signs, but in this case there were none.”
Michael Chandler, who hasn't entered the Octagon in over two years, was originally scheduled to fight
. However, McGregor's injury led to the cancellation of that fight, so Chandler went looking for another big fight. The upcoming duel with Oliveira is considered a crucial moment for Chandler's return.
Helwani also emphasized the importance of reliable reporting in light of the simmering rumors. “So far I haven’t heard that the fight is over,” he saidputting an end to speculation that had been causing a stir in the MMA community.
Fans had voiced their concerns online after unfounded reports suggested Chandler's status for UFC 309 could be in doubt. As fight cancellations became more common due to injuries or unforeseen complications, the concern of fight enthusiasts was palpable.
However, Helwani's confirmation has allayed those concerns for now.
Related
Dustin Poirier is ready to step in
“The Diamond” has seemingly pushed retirement talks to the back burner
Date | Opponent | Result | Proceedings | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|
June 1, 2024 | Islam Makhachev | Loss | Submission (D'Arce Choke) | UFC 302: Makhachev vs. Poirier |
March 9, 2024 | Benoît Saint Denis | Win | KO/TKO (punches) | UFC 299: O'Malley vs. Vera 2 |
July 29, 2023 | Justin Gaethje | Loss | KO/TKO (Headbutt) | UFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2 |
Meanwhile, Dustin Poirier has put his name in play as a potential backup fighter should there be issues with Oliveira or Chandler.
Poirier, who hasn't fought since June – when he suffered one
Lost in the fifth round to Islam Makhachev
During his bid to capture the undisputed lightweight title, he has expressed interest in filling in for the main event if necessary.
After that defeat, Poirier considered retirement, but has since returned to training with renewed vigor. He recently made it clear that he is prepared for another challenge: say: “I’m in” This was in response to Oliveira questioning the rumors about his upcoming fight.
For now, fans can look forward to seeing Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler face off at UFC 309 on November 16th. With no confirmed reports of a cancellation, the lightweight showdown remains one of the most anticipated fights on the MMA calendar.
Helwani's thorough investigation provided much-needed clarity, allayed fears and maintained excitement surrounding the event.
