Dustin Poirier urges Michael Chandler to retire: ‘What are you doing?’

Dustin Poirier has publicly advised Michael Chandler to retire from mixed martial arts, expressing concern over the damage the former Bellator champion continues to absorb in the octagon. Speaking on the "Deep Waters" podcast, Poirier said: "With all due respect, we've buried the hatchet and shook hands, but Michael Chandler, what are you doing? He definitely should retire."

Poirier's comments come after Chandler posted a first-round knockout loss to Mauricio Ruffy at UFC Freedom 250, extending his winless streak to four consecutive fights. The 2-6 UFC record includes notable victories over Dan Hooker and Tony Ferguson, but Chandler has not tasted victory since 2022. His struggles at lightweight have prompted speculation about a potential move up to welterweight—a shift Poirier believes would be ill-advised given the punishment already mounting at 155 pounds.

"If 155ers are stopping you and you're taking all this damage, what do you think 170 is going to do?" Poirier asked rhetorically. The two fighters have history dating back to their 2022 clash, where Poirier criticized Chandler for repeated illegal techniques including fish-hooking. Though they have since reconciled and shaken hands, Poirier's retirement message underscores genuine concern for his former rival's wellbeing.

Chandler's recent knockout loss and extended decline have raised broader questions about whether the veteran should consider stepping away from active competition to preserve his health.