For years, MMA pundits wondered how Michael Chandler would fare competing in the UFC.
Chandler dominated the Bellator MMA lightweight division, and now at UFC 262, he gets his shot at becoming a champion inside the Octagon.
This Saturday night, Chandler and Charles Oliveira will meet for the vacant UFC lightweight title. The belt was relinquished by Khabib Nurmagomedov after he retired.
For Chandler, it is about proving himself once again on the grand stage. The veteran has done it time and time before, but this will be much, much different.
Oliveira is a dangerous opponent with an incredible run in recent fights. He has topped Tony Ferguson, Kevin Lee and Jared Gordon during an eight-fight unbeaten streak.
And with 19 career wins by submission, he is a foe Chandler will need to be focused on.
Chandler, who twice held the Bellator title, earned a victory in his UFC debut over Dan Hooker this past January. He also holds wins over Benson Henderson, Brent Primus and Eddie Alvarez during his run.
This will be a battle of two fighters who each have their preference in where the fight takes place, but are also more than capable of getting the job done in other areas of battle.