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UFC 314's Michael Chandler responds to devastating Paddy Pimblett defeat

"Iron" took to social media to reflect upon UFC 314

Zain Bando

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Michael Chandler has released a statement after his loss to Paddy Pimblett, as he dropped to 2-5 in his last seven fights in the co-main event of UFC 314.

It seems the former lightweight title challenger is far from done competing and the loss is just a minor setback.

“There are really no words to describe the pain and disappointment you feel…you just live in it…let it take its lot and leave you with what is left. From there you rebuild,” Chandler wrote.

READ MORE: UFC star Ian Garry explains exactly why he’ll finish Carlos Prates

Michael Chandler Looks Ahead To Future

Michael Chandler assesses los
Apr 12, 2025; Miami, Florida, UNITED STATES; Michael Chandler (red gloves) fights against Paddy Pimblett (blue gloves) during UFC 314 at Kaseya Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images / Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Chandler added he was proud of his performance despite the loss, noting he learned a lot.

“The best you can do is move forward with confident expectancy and pride in the attempt,” Chandler wrote. “One thing is certain, I can rest in knowing that I prepared the best I could and I alone was responsible for my shortcomings in that octagon. My team prepared me. The UFC gave me the opportunity. I stepped into the ultimate proving grounds, ready.”

Chandler said although he was mounted and battered, he felt like he was fine until the stoppage.

“Bested, but never beaten. Never out of the fight. Still in pursuit.”

Nevertheless, he was grateful to be surrounded by those who love him and the people who have his best interest.

“And this picture [holding hands] sums up how I feel and what truly matters. Bruised, bloodied and heartbroken, yet I have my soulmate by my side and [three] little hands to hold.”

“Future is still bright. Walk on. See you at the top.”

For now, it remains to be seen where Chandler goes from here:

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Zain Bando
ZAIN BANDO

Zain Bando is a writer for MMA Knockout, part of the Sports Illustrated/Minute Media umbrella. He has covered combat sports since 2019 for notable outlets BJPenn.com and FanSided MMA. He also co-hosts a podcast called "The MMA Outsiders," part of the Empty The Bench Podcast Network, which airs Tuesday nights at 7:00 p.m. ET/4:00 p.m. PT. A Chicago suburban native, Bando has been enthralled with MMA since 2006 and has been fortunate to attend some of the most high-profile events in the sport's history, both as a fan and media member, including UFC 264, Bellator 297 and Kayla Harrison's PFL MMA debut. He is excited to take the next step in his combat sports writing journey and looks forward to continuing his following of the fight game for years to come. Bando can be reached via email at zainbando99@gmail.com or by social media @zainbando99

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