UFC: Michael Chandler says he made some questionable decisions in loss to Justin Gaethje

Gaethje defeated Chandler by decision in an instant Fight of the Year contender on the UFC 268 main card

In first post-fight statement, Chandler admits his approach to tackling Gaethje head on was ‘Ill-advised yet entertaining’

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Michael Chandler looks on against Justin Gaethje in their lightweight bout at UFC 268. Photo: AFP

Published: 10:26am, 9 Nov 2021Updated: 10:26am, 9 Nov 2021

Former Bellator lightweight champion “Iron” Michael Chandler has issued his first public statement since he was defeated by Justin Gaethje over the weekend.

The 35-year-old Chandler (22-7) met the former interim UFC lightweight champ in the opening bout of the UFC 268 main card on Saturday night in New York City.

The former Bellator lightweight champ had plenty of success in the fight, rattling Gaethje with a number of huge punches, but ultimately fell short, giving up a unanimous decision to his rival.

Michael Chandler (right) lands a punch against Justin Gaethje during their lightweight bout at UFC 268. Photo: AP

The fight, which immediately stood out as one of the best of the year, earned each man a US$50,000 Fight of the Night bonus cheque – and a quick trip to the hospital, which meant neither was able to speak to the media gathered backstage in Madison Square Garden.

After getting patched up, Chandler took to Instagram to share an update with his fans. Despite not getting the result he wanted, he seems to be in good spirits.