"Living rent free" - Michael Chandler claps back at Dustin Poirier for 'The Diamond's' recent criticism
Michael Chandler and Dustin Poirier have recently been engaged in an intense back-and-forth. In November 2022, Chandler looked to build momentum after knocking out Tony Ferguson by facing Poirier at UFC 281.
The lightweight superstars went to war in an entertaining matchup that lasted less than three rounds. Once the dust settled, 'The Diamond' emerged victorious by third-round submission.
Following the impressive finish, Poirier extended his rivalry with Chandler, claiming the latter used several illegal and disrespectful moves during their fight. Earlier this week, the Louisiana native did an interview with Ariel Helwani on 'The MMA Hour' and had this to say about his former opponent:
"Dude, he hasn't fought since I came out here and whipped him. Chandler also thinks he's a bigger draw than he is I think... Nah [I wouldn't want to fight Chandler again], why? I beat him. He's beating himself. He's doing a good job of beating himself. Dude, he's wasted two years. It's horrible for him. I think he's got Dana White privilege too, so he'll be alright."
Poirier's comments were re-posted on Twitter and caught the attention of the MMA community. Chandler later responded to 'The Diamond' by saying:
"Dues paid but I'm living rent free"
Watch Dustin Poirier's entire rant about Michael Chandler below:
Dustin Poirier discusses risk and reward of Michael Chandler waiting to fight Conor McGregor
Michael Chandler hasn't fought since losing against Dustin Poirier in November 2022. Since then, Chandler took up the mantle of coach on season 32 of 'The Ultimate Fighter' against Conor McGregor, setting up an intriguing matchup.
McGregor has endured several setbacks that have delayed his highly-anticipated octagon return, leaving Chandler sidelined longer than expected. During the previously mentioned interview on 'The MMA Hour,' Poirier had this to say about the situation:
"The payoff of beating Conor McGregor, financially and just for your career, is worth the wait. If you never get it, you're wasting a lot of years, and [Chandler is] not a young man. These years are very important."
As for Dustin Poirier, he last fought on June 1 against Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight title. Poirier put forth a valiant effort before Makhachev secured a fifth-round submission to retain his throne. '
Watch Poirier discuss Chandler waiting for McGregor below: