Justin Gaethje is rooting for Michael Chandler at UFC 314.
Former Bellator champion and ex-UFC title challenger Chandler (23-9 MMA, 2-4 UFC) meets Paddy Pimblett (22-3 MMA, 6-0 UFC) in Saturday’s five-round lightweight co-headliner (pay-per-view, ESPN, ESPN+) at Kaseya Center in Miami.
Gaethje beat Chandler in a Fight of the Year barnburner at UFC 268 in November 2021. He broke down the keys to victory for Pimblett.
“I think try to initiate the grappling early and get him tired,” Gaethje told The Schmo. “That way, in the end of Round 2 and all of Round 3, you can get to the grappling. He’s got very good grappling and very good submissions, so obviously Chandler needs to avoid that. But I think get him tired. Get in a couple scrambles, let him take you down a couple times, and trust in your ability to not get submitted, get back up, and fight for three rounds.”
Gaethje later found out that the fight is five rounds, not three. While he was advising Pimblett on how to wear Chandler down, he’d actually like to see his former rival prevail.
“Then definitely let him take you down,” Gaethje said. “Two times, three times in the first round. I hope Chandler wins. I like Chandler. I don’t dislike Chandler. I hope that the old guard holds up, keeps these young, hungry kids out for as long as possible, so we’ll see. I hope Chandler wins – crazy game.”
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