Dustin Poirier calls for Michael Chandler to retire: ‘What are you doing?’ - MMA Fighting

What the report says

MMA Fighting reported that Dustin Poirier believes Michael Chandler should consider retiring from mixed martial arts after Chandler’s latest defeat. Speaking on the Deep Waters show, Poirier questioned why his former opponent is continuing to compete, while acknowledging that the two have moved past their previous rivalry and shaken hands.

The discussion follows Chandler’s knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy at UFC White House last month, which MMA Fighting described as his fourth straight defeat. The outlet noted that Chandler, a former Bellator lightweight champion, is now 2-6 in the UFC and is 40 years old. After the loss, Chandler indicated on social media that he was prepared to return, prompting Poirier to raise concerns about the damage he has taken and the possibility of moving from lightweight to welterweight.

Poirier, who MMA Fighting said retired last year, framed the issue as a common challenge for aging fighters. He said fighters are often the last to recognize when it may be time to stop, because confidence, gym experiences and the belief that one decisive punch can still change a fight can keep them competing.

The report also noted that Poirier could understand one potential final matchup for Chandler: a long-discussed fight with Conor McGregor, if McGregor is healthy and has a bout remaining on his contract. The comments matter because Chandler remains one of the UFC’s most recognizable lightweights, but his recent results have intensified questions about his future and whether another high-profile fight would be competitive or advisable.