One of the most talked-about lightweight clashes on the UFC 314 card is the high-stakes battle between former Bellator champion Michael Chandler and Liverpool’s fan-favorite Paddy Pimblett. This matchup blends experience, explosiveness, and charisma as both fighters aim to climb the crowded UFC lightweight ladder.

Michael Chandler (23-9) enters the bout as a seasoned veteran with a legacy built on knockouts, wars of attrition, and elite-level wrestling. The 38-year-old has fought some of the toughest names in the sport, from Charles Oliveira to Justin Gaethje, often earning Fight of the Night honors regardless of outcome. While Chandler is currently on a two-fight skid with losses to Oliveira and Poirier, he remains a dangerous threat with explosive power and a never-back-down style. His resume boasts 11 KO wins and 7 submissions, making him a well-rounded threat anywhere the fight goes.

Paddy Pimblett (22-3), ranked #12 in the lightweight division, continues to silence doubters with each Octagon appearance. The former Cage Warriors featherweight champion brings a wild, unpredictable striking style and slick grappling skills. “The Baddy” is riding a six-fight win streak, with recent wins over Tony Ferguson and Jared Gordon, and he’s shown his finishing ability with 10 submissions and 6 knockouts. However, he hasn’t faced a wrestler of Chandler’s caliber before, and his defensive grappling will likely be tested here.

Last 5 Fights – Michael Chandler:

❌ Loss – Charles Oliveira | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 309 | Nov 16, 2024
❌ Loss – Dustin Poirier | Submission (RNC) | UFC 281 | Nov 12, 2022
✅ Win – Tony Ferguson | KO (front kick) | UFC 274 | May 7, 2022
❌ Loss – Justin Gaethje | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 268 | Nov 6, 2021
❌ Loss – Charles Oliveira | TKO (punches) | UFC 262 | May 15, 2021

Last 5 Fights – Paddy Pimblett:

✅ Win – King Green | Technical Submission (triangle choke) | UFC 304 | Jul 27, 2024
✅ Win – Tony Ferguson | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 296 | Dec 16, 2023
✅ Win – Jared Gordon | Decision (unanimous) | UFC 282 | Dec 10, 2022
✅ Win – Jordan Leavitt | Submission (RNC) | UFC FN: Blaydes vs. Aspinall | Jul 23, 2022
✅ Win – Rodrigo Vargas | Submission (RNC) | UFC FN: Volkov vs. Aspinall | Mar 19, 2022

Prediction:

This fight boils down to whether Chandler can pressure and outwrestle Pimblett or if “The Baddy” can survive the storm and pull off another submission or rally late. Chandler has shown vulnerability to submissions, and Pimblett is dangerous on the mat, especially in scrambles. However, Chandler’s power, pace, and top control may prove too much over three rounds.

If Chandler sticks to his wrestling roots and avoids unnecessary brawls, this is his fight to lose. But if Paddy can weather the early storm and capitalize on Chandler's tendency to fade late, an upset could be in play.

Michael Chandler wins via Decision (unanimous)